SHIRE of Wakool residents will have their say on the proposed merger with neighbouring Murray Shire Council at a series of community gatherings next week.
The first council-organised gathering was held at Wakool last night, with meetings at Barham, Moulamein, Murray Downs and Tooleybuc scheduled for next week.
Shire mayor, Cr Neil Gorey said the community gatherings were an opportunity for residents to learn more about the proposed merger, which was announced by the New South Wales Government last month.
It comes despite Wakool being assessed by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal as being “fit for the future”, as opposed to Murray which isn’t.
“As well as providing information around the proposed merger, the gatherings will also assist residents to understand the process and what they can do to either support or object to the merger,” Cr Gorey said.
Cr Gorey has previously said council was shocked by the proposed amalgamation, which is part of a State-wide process that would involve councils being reduced in number from 152 to 112.
“Council was found to be fit in its own right, therefore, for it to be announced by the Premier (Mike Baird) that Wakool is to be merged with Murray, was certainly an unexpected outcome to say the least,” Cr Gorey said.
The proposed municipality – which would span the length of the Murray River from Mathoura west to Tooleybuc – would cater for 11,400 residents and generate a $20 million total financial benefit during its first 20 years.
Council is also conducting a poll via mail and telephone to seek the views of the community. The results of the poll will assist council in its submission to the government for consideration.
The poll should be returned to council by no later than February 10.
Council is also encouraging community members to register to attend and speak at two public inquiries being undertaken by a delegate to the Minister for Local Government.
“This inquiry will be the only opportunity for residents to verbally express their opinions on the proposed merger with Murray shire,” Cr Gorey said.
The public inquiries will be held on February 9 at cluBarham from 9am to 11am and at the Morning Glory Conference Centre, Moama from 2pm to 4pm.
To attend and speak at the inquiry, you must register at www.councilboudaryreview.nsw.gov.au.
Written submissions are also being accepted via the above web address or by mail to GPO Box 534, Sydney NSW 2000.
Submissions will be accepted by the delegate until 5pm on February 28.
COMMUNITY GATHERINGS:
Murray Downs
Monday, February 1
7pm to 9pm
Balcony Room, Murray Downs Golf Club
Tooleybuc
Tuesday, February 2
7pm to 9pm
Burgundy Room, Tooleybuc Sporting Club
Barham
Wednesday, February 3
7pm to 9pm
cluBarham
Moulamein
Thursday, February 4
7pm to 9pm
Moulamein Bowling Club
