The Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Dr Peter Hendy sent out a letter to the editor outlining his opposition to the State Liberal Government planned council amalgamations.
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Dr Hendy said “I have written to the NSW Premier outlining my opposition to a forced council merger between Palerang and Queanbeyan Councils.
I have always maintained that community representation, community support, and a strong business case are vital conditions for any council merger.
In our local region, and with specific regard to some of our smaller communities we need to ensure that any decision provides for local service and infrastructure delivery, and continues to provide strong local community representation.
I have taken the time to investigate if there might be a strong business case for this merger, but it has failed to materialise. As such I cannot support this merger proposal.
As the Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, I work daily with our local councils to deliver for our communities – local councils that are connected to their communities are vital partners of Federal Government investment in our region.
Together with my opposition to merger of Tumut and Tumbarumba, and Bombala, Cooma-Monaro, and Snowy River, I am opposed to forced council mergers in our region and will continue to advocate strongly for our communities.
I have written – repeatedly – to the NSW Government on this issue, and will continue to do so. The case for a council merger does not add up” concluded Dr Hendy.
A decision on the proposals is expected in coming weeks.