THE $1 billion package offered to NSW councils wishing to amalgamate will have no bearing on the Eurobodalla, mayor Lindsay Brown says.
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The NSW Government this month announced funding for regional council mergers, as well as a suite of legislative changes and cheaper finance under the Fit for Futures Package.
The funding followed the Local Government Review Panel’s recommendation last year that hundreds of councils, deemed financially unviable, be merged.
The Eurobodalla’s merger potential was deemed “low” in the report, however the shire received a “moderate” financial sustainability rating and a “neutral” outlook.
It was also rated “weak” in a local government infrastructure audit last year by the Division of Local Government.
Mayor Lindsay Brown said the amalgamation announcement would not affect the Eurobodalla as it was deemed “a stand-alone council”.
“We went through an 18-month process of investigating the amalgamation across NSW and there has been no perceived savings or benefit in the Eurobodalla in amalgamating with anyone,” Cr Brown said.
“They recommended we stand alone because of our strong independent performance.”
Cr Brown said Bega Valley Shire was also considered a stand-alone council.
Bega MP Andrew Constance, who was vocal in his support for a merger of Bega Valley and Eurobodalla shires earlier this year, said the NSW Treasury report found Bega shire was in a healthier financial position than the Eurobodalla.
Bega’s merger potential was also low, but it was rated “sound” for financial sustainability, with a “neutral” outlook and had a “strong” performance in the infrastructure audit.
Mr Constance said the package was not about forcing amalgamations, but asking councils to consider their positions and ensure they were giving ratepayers the best facilities for their rates.
“If amalgamation is a viable option, we want councils to consider it,” he said.
“The NSW Government wants communities to have confidence that their council is financially sound, operating efficiently and in a strong position to guide community growth and deliver quality services.
“This is a historic package that gives local councils the incentives needed to ensure they are in a position to provide the services and infrastructure their communities need and deserve.”