12 May 2016 - No Merger Of Shoalhaven and Kiama Councils
Radio 2ST Nowra: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/90760-no-merger-of-shoalhaven-and-kiama-councils
Premier Mike Baird has officially shelved plans to merge Shoalhaven and Kiama Councils. The state government has created 19 new Councils across NSW saying they will deliver better services and community facilities. Shoalhaven Mayor Jo Gash says keeping Shoalhaven and Kiama Councils separate is a good move, while Kiama Mayor Brian Petschler says it's evidence that the original proposal to amalgamate was illogical. A merger between Shellharbour and Wollongong Councils looks likely to happen, although Shellharbour Deputy Mayor Paul Rankin says it's not necessarily a done deal. A court ruling has stopped the government from making a decision on that merger until Friday.
Radio 2ST Nowra: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/90760-no-merger-of-shoalhaven-and-kiama-councils
Premier Mike Baird has officially shelved plans to merge Shoalhaven and Kiama Councils. The state government has created 19 new Councils across NSW saying they will deliver better services and community facilities. Shoalhaven Mayor Jo Gash says keeping Shoalhaven and Kiama Councils separate is a good move, while Kiama Mayor Brian Petschler says it's evidence that the original proposal to amalgamate was illogical. A merger between Shellharbour and Wollongong Councils looks likely to happen, although Shellharbour Deputy Mayor Paul Rankin says it's not necessarily a done deal. A court ruling has stopped the government from making a decision on that merger until Friday.
7 April 2016 - Very happy, Ann [Sudmalis, Federal MP for Gilmore]
South Coast Register, Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3835640/letters-to-the-editor/?cs=205
I write in complete support of Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis. I was present when Ann carefully considered the mood of her electorate in seconding the motion.
The mood of the electorate is supported by the almost 1000 who attended public meetings and of those the 99 per cent who supported motions instructing Shelley Hancock to oppose the merger. There are 2000 signatures on a petition to oust Shelley for supporting a merger.
Shelley, you seem besotted with Michael Baird’s boyish charm. Posts of him with a puppy dog when the issue concerning the electorate is forced amalgamation. Your condescending tone to community members and your snub of Margaret Nyholm at the Ulladulla meeting is of great concern.
It has become obvious you [Shelley Hancock] support the merger. Ann [Sudmalis] is prepared to support her community and has performed exceptionally well in Canberra. We are not the bellwether seat of Eden-Monaro. Local branches need to support Ann and instruct Shelley to support community views.
J. Willmott, Mollymook
7 April 2016 - Councillor Defends Gilmore MP [Ann Sudmalis]
Radio 2ST, Nowra: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/90143-councillor-defends-gilmore-mp
Shoalhaven Councillor Greg Watson has come to the defence of Ms. Sudmalis. Mr. Watson says the Gilmore MP has put the community first over political allies and believes it's atrocious the way she's been attacked. He insists it's important that public figures stand up and fight for their communities.
South Coast Register, Letters: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3835640/letters-to-the-editor/?cs=205
I write in complete support of Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis. I was present when Ann carefully considered the mood of her electorate in seconding the motion.
The mood of the electorate is supported by the almost 1000 who attended public meetings and of those the 99 per cent who supported motions instructing Shelley Hancock to oppose the merger. There are 2000 signatures on a petition to oust Shelley for supporting a merger.
Shelley, you seem besotted with Michael Baird’s boyish charm. Posts of him with a puppy dog when the issue concerning the electorate is forced amalgamation. Your condescending tone to community members and your snub of Margaret Nyholm at the Ulladulla meeting is of great concern.
It has become obvious you [Shelley Hancock] support the merger. Ann [Sudmalis] is prepared to support her community and has performed exceptionally well in Canberra. We are not the bellwether seat of Eden-Monaro. Local branches need to support Ann and instruct Shelley to support community views.
J. Willmott, Mollymook
7 April 2016 - Councillor Defends Gilmore MP [Ann Sudmalis]
Radio 2ST, Nowra: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/90143-councillor-defends-gilmore-mp
Shoalhaven Councillor Greg Watson has come to the defence of Ms. Sudmalis. Mr. Watson says the Gilmore MP has put the community first over political allies and believes it's atrocious the way she's been attacked. He insists it's important that public figures stand up and fight for their communities.
4 April 2016 - Council General Managers told to apply for jobs by body that doesn't employ them
By: Jacob Saulwick, Leesha McKenny, SMH: http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/council-general-managers-told-to-apply-for-jobs-by-body-that-doesnt-employ-them-20160403-gnxgi3.html#ixzz44p1kNU2W Imagine being told to reapply for your job by an organisation that is not your employer for a role that doesn't exist. That is the situation confronting council General Managers across Sydney and NSW, in the latest instance of uncertainty and upheaval triggered by the government's determination to merge councils. After councillors from local government areas facing possible mergers were told to apply for their positions in new entities last month, the government has made a similar request of general managers. In a directive last week, the NSW government requested expressions of interest from existing council general managers for "interim" roles in new merged entities. The communication requested responses to three questions about leading organisations during periods of change, and asked for a resumé. The request has confused and angered parts of the local government sector, in part because General Managers are employed by councils and not the state government. |
"Most of us have been pretty well gobsmacked when the government made this decision," said Keith Rhoades, the president of Local Government NSW. "I can't think of another place where it has happened where someone who doesn't employ you tells you can reapply for your job but that you might not get it," Mr Rhoades said. "That's like the general manager of News [Corp] coming over to you and saying you've got to apply for your job, even though you work for Fairfax," he said. The government has stated that it wants to reduce the number of councils in Sydney from 43 to 25. But it has been forced to run a "Boundaries Commission" inquiry into reducing numbers, and that inquiry has not yet finished. A spokeswoman for NSW Local Government Minister Paul Toole said: "No decision has been made on any merger proposal, but it's appropriate for the government to seek a pool of qualified people to ensure a seamless transition to new councils that proceed. "The government is aiming to make a decision on proposals currently under consideration by midyear." |
28 March 2016 - NSW Councillors told to re-apply for their jobs
By ANNE DAVIES, smh.com.au. In the South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3814413/nsw-councillors-told-to-re-apply-for-their-jobs/?cs=203 NSW Councillors have been told to re-apply for their jobs, as the NSW Government lays the groundwork to terminate existing councils as early as next month and begin amalgamations. On Thursday all Councillors received a letter from the Minister for Local Government Paul Toole, telling them he was considering interim arrangements for councils until elections are held after September. He said he was looking at options of a single person acting as administrator of a new merged council, or the continuation in office of some or all of the Councillors in the new larger council area. Councillors have been ordered to submit an expression of interest by April 15 explaining why they would be suitable for the interim council or why they are qualified to act as an administrator. General Managers and Mayors are also required to apply for the jobs in the new larger councils. But two contentious mergers - that of Mosman, Willoughby and North Sydney and the plan to cut Warringah in half and amalgamate it with Pittwater to the north and Manly to the south - are still to hold a public inquiries stage and submissions are still open until April 8. Mr Toole denied he had already made a decision on any merger proposal, but said the government was committed to ensuring effective implementation of any merger that goes ahead. "That is why the government wants to hear from currently serving Councillors who are committed to the success of any new council," he said. The letter has drawn an angry reaction from councils opposed to amalgamation. Save Our Councils Coalition (SOCC) branded the letter " toxic" and anti-democratic. The group is urging councillors not to respond. "This action by the minister and the NSW Government is highly divisive and is pre-judging the outcome of the deeply flawed proposed mergers process," the group said. The letter raises questions about whether any councillor who has been involved in campaigning against a merger in their local area will be considered for the interim council, or as an administrator. The minister said he was looking for Councillors who have a "commitment to making the new council a success" and "a commitment to promote the new council to the community." The letter was also silent on when administrators would be appointed, versus when the minister would consider a council comprised of some or all of the councillors. There was no guidance on the principles that the minister would use -- for example whether he would appoint councillors in proportion to the representation of the political parties on existing councils or whether there would be a geographic spread across the councils. |
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"This is not about the Right or Left of politics but the erosion of the democratic voices of local government by the bullies of the NSW state government. Under this 'job application' who gets to decide who remains as a Councillor until the next council election and who has the right to do so? Councillors are elected by the people," said Miriam Gutman-Jones, an independent on Waverley Council. Timeline to merged councils: December 18 2015: Premier Mike Baird announces 43 councils in Sydney will be merged into 25. January 6 2016: Boundaries Commission re-constituted, delegates appointed and public inquiries announced. February: Public submissions received. March: Public hearings held. April 8: Deadline for last submissions to inquiries into Mosman, North Sydney, Willoughby merger and Northern Beaches mergers. April 15: Councillors must submit expressions of interest to continue on interim councils. Late April: Recommendations from delegates expected to go to minister. April/ May : Announcement from minister ordering mergers, dismissing councils and appointing interim staff. September: Local government elections for new larger councils. |
Thursday 24 March 2016 - Huskisson - 7:00pm - Club Jervis Bay (formerly the Huskisson RSL Club)
Public Meeting - Councils Amalgamation proposal Your Future Depends on What Happens - Have Your Say This meeting is being called by: Cllr Greg Watson, Cllr Jim McCrudden, Cllr Andrew Guile, former Cllr Bob Proudfoot, Cllr Mark Kitchener and Cllr Amanda Findley. These Cllrs believe that the elected Shoalhaven City Council (i.e. not the staff) have let us all down by not properly informing us of the real issues about the proposed merger. The above Cllrs say of the amalgamation proposal that: -- it will cause a huge increase in rates at the end of the freeze period, of up to $450/ann per ratepayer, Kiama ratepayers currently pay +45% more rates than Shoalhaven -- a big question mark hangs over the future of Shoalhaven Water, which is a $1.2Bill asset, which pumps $8Mill/ann into the Council General Fund In the event that this ill-advised merger goes ahead: the above Cllrs are concerned that instead of the anticipated appointment by the NSW Government of an interim Administrator - some existing Cllrs may be manoeuvring to get themselves appointed as the Interim Council (until new elections next year - March 2017). Further information: Greg Watson, Mobile: 0412 210 979, Email: gregwatson@shoalhaven.net.au |
22 February 2016 - Tomerong Community Forum have corresponded -95kb, with the NSW Government appointed Public Delegate, outlining why the Shoalhaven-Kiama Councils merger shouldn't go ahead.
20 February 2016 - Hi all, the Tomerong Community Forum opposes the forced council merger in its current form, and has prepared an attached flyer -60kb, [see under] which was distributed to its members. There has been too little community consultation on this proposed merger and a real possibilty that if we don't make submissions to the government via Mr Greg Wright (email address on flyer) in either view of the merger, then we make get a result that does not truly represent the view of the voting majority. The decision of what happens to Shoalhaven rests in your hands.
You can simply say 'I oppose', or 'approve' of the merger.
Cheers, Peter Allison, Tomerong Community Forum
You can simply say 'I oppose', or 'approve' of the merger.
Cheers, Peter Allison, Tomerong Community Forum
20 Feb 2016 - Tomerong Community Forum
PO Box 1100, Tomerong NSW 2540 Web: www.tomerong.com Email: tomerongforum@hotmail.com Refce: Proposed Shoalhaven/Kiama Council merger Facts; 1. If the merger is approved by Govt, the minsters proclamation will necessitate that all Councillors, General Manager and department Directors probably be made redundant by June 2016. The new Council will go into Caretaker mode for 9-12 months until the transformation is complete. An acting administrator/ caretaker will be appointed by State Government. 2. The two General Managers maybe engaged as advisors to the administrator/caretaker during the set up merger process. [No infrastructure improvements to be undertaken in this period] 3. Shoalhaven Water is a 1.2 billion dollar asset to Shoalhaven Council and generates about $7 million dollars in revenue for Shoalhaven Council. This would be lost in its entirety if a merger was to be approved. [With a 4 year rate freeze and $7 million losses from revenue per year how will the new council financially survive on the $5 million State Govt is giving for the merger?] |
4. State Government has not mentioned this valuable asset in its proposal but it could be concluded that Shoalhaven Water be transferred to Sydney Water and the revenue [$ 7M] deposited into State Treasury. Or even sold off to private enterprise.
5. Kiama’s rates are at present 45% higher than Shoalhaven so are they going to lower Kiama’s rates to match ours?? We will see a substantial rate hike after the 4 year freeze on rates. 6. Approx $400,000 of taxpayer money that State Govt used to investigate the merger, resulted in the consultants engaged [KPMG] using outdated figures and not the 2014/2015 figures which showed Shoalhaven Council having a saving of 6.5M 7. In October 2015 IPART [Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal NSW Govt] concluded that Shoalhaven Council was “Fit for the Future” and could stand alone. 8. State Govt said there is savings to be made but the new council will have more roads, more parks, a bigger waste collection and State Govt wants to make savings by cutting staff? 9. No elected Member of Parliament, no Councillor will have any say in the decision process: It will purely be down to the recommendation of Greg Wright to the Minister Paul Toole. One man makes the decision for us. |
Summary;
The real issue here is if you do not make your opinion heard either way it is quite possible that the State Govt could make the assumption of your silence as a vote in favour of the merger so please read the facts or go onto Council’s website and State Govt website and make your opinion count either way. Your submissions must reach Greg Wright before 28th Feb 2016 [this coming Sunday] Send letter to Greg Wright and Cc to Council by email and then post to; Direct to the delegate: Greg.Wright@dpc.nsw.gov.au Cc to Council email: Council@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au Mr Greg Wright The Delegate, Kiama- Shoalhaven Merger Proposal GPO Box 5341 Sydney NSW 2001 Cc: paul.toole@parliament.nsw.gov.au [Minister for the council merger] Regards Peter Allison Chairperson Tomerong Community Forum |
17 February 2016 - Survey Results Show Community Rejects Merger Proposal
Radio 2ST, Nowra: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/89366-survey-results-show-community-rejects-merger-proposal
Shoalhaven City Council has received the results from an IRIS phone survey commissioned by council to gauge community feelings about the proposed merger of Kiama and Shoalhaven. The survey was conducted over the weekend of the 13-14 February 2016 and comprised of 500 respondents selected to statistically represent the Shoalhaven community in terms of age and gender.
Mayor Gash said the results show a resounding 71.5% of the community do not agree with the State Governments proposal to merge Kiama and Shoalhaven councils. “This shows that the community is in support of Council’s current position that the merger proposal in its current form is unworkable,” said Clr Gash. “It is clear that the community does not support the merger proposal and cannot see the benefit to their community.” “This provides Council with clear confirmation that the current position is the right one to have adopted and that this needs to be strongly conveyed to the delegate and to the State Government.”
[Ed: Petition: Save Our Shoalhaven at: https://goo.gl/xI7XAI]
Radio 2ST, Nowra: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/89366-survey-results-show-community-rejects-merger-proposal
Shoalhaven City Council has received the results from an IRIS phone survey commissioned by council to gauge community feelings about the proposed merger of Kiama and Shoalhaven. The survey was conducted over the weekend of the 13-14 February 2016 and comprised of 500 respondents selected to statistically represent the Shoalhaven community in terms of age and gender.
Mayor Gash said the results show a resounding 71.5% of the community do not agree with the State Governments proposal to merge Kiama and Shoalhaven councils. “This shows that the community is in support of Council’s current position that the merger proposal in its current form is unworkable,” said Clr Gash. “It is clear that the community does not support the merger proposal and cannot see the benefit to their community.” “This provides Council with clear confirmation that the current position is the right one to have adopted and that this needs to be strongly conveyed to the delegate and to the State Government.”
[Ed: Petition: Save Our Shoalhaven at: https://goo.gl/xI7XAI]
11 Feb 2016 - HWCV formally opposes the merger
The General Manager, PO Box 65, Huskisson NSW 2540 Shoalhaven City Council 11 Feb 2016, e: exec@hwcv.org.au PO Box 42, Nowra 2541 (via e-mail) Attn: Mr Russ Pigg Dear Russ, Re: Proposed merger-Shoalhaven City Council & Kiama Municipal Council At our February 2016 general meeting, held last Monday evening (8th) those members present unanimously agreed that we, HWCV note our agreement with the motion adopted by Shoalhaven Council, opposing the proposal as it stands. Speaking to the motion members could not find many positive supportable reasons at this time. However, they did express what appear to be some disadvantages: loss of identity, excessive financial pressures if merged, the sheer geography entailed to be serviced and supported, seem relatively obvious - no doubt further details maybe forthcoming and we stand ready to share those with our members at any time. Yours faithfully, Garry D Kelson, Chair of HWCV Cc: - Mayor and Councillors -SCC - Hon Shelley Hancock, MP South Coast - Hon Gareth Ward, MP Kiama |
12 Feb 2016 - from the Council Boundary Review - - acknowledgement of HWCV submission Submission information Thank you for your interest in the Council Boundary Review process. If you require further information please visit: www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au. Name: Garry Kelson Email: exec@hwcv.org.au Postcode: 2540 Comment: HWCV is a formally recognised CCB of Shoalhaven City - we represent the Communities of Huskisson & Woollamia. The attached memo to Shoalhaven Council followed a vote at our recent general meeting which supports its current decision to oppose the proposed merger. We respectfully request this be noted as a vote by our members AGAINST the merger of Shoalhaven & Kiama, thank you. Garry Kelson, Chair of HWCV |
5 February 2016 -
Hi All, the Public Inquiry for the Merger Proposal was held in Nowra on the 3rd of February 2016. The inquiry was well attended by our community, with a number of CCBs and other community groups at the Nowra session. It was very pleasing to see some CCB/Chamber members speaking at the inquiry, as well as other community representatives and we thank them all for their efforts. As part of the inquiry, a presentation -130kb, was provided by Russ Pigg- General Manager on behalf of Council. A copy of the presentation made by Russ is attached for your reference. It can also be circulated to your members for their information. A reminder that submissions are still open and can be made at: https://www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au/proposals/kiama-municipal-and-shoalhaven-city-councils/ |
We thank you for your continued interest in this matter. Kind regards Jessica Rippon Executive Manager-Communications Shoalhaven City Council 02 4429 3270 | 0413806137 Bridge Rd (PO Box 42) Nowra NSW 2541 rippon@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au |
4 February 2016 -
Unaminous Objection To Forced Merger At Delegate Hearing Radio 2ST, Shoalhaven News: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/89160-unaminous-objection-to-forced-merger-at-delegate-hearing The first of two public hearings into the impact of a merger between Kiama and Shoalhaven councils was held in Nowra yesterday, with a crowd of about 70 [Ed: nearer 80] in attendance and more than 20 speakers putting the case against the merger. The meeting was chaired by delegate to the Office of Local Government Greg Wright. The speakers were unanimously against the merger in its present form. Issues of job losses, revenue loss and the renaming of the new merged council dominated the presentations. |
General Manager Russ Pigg told the delegate the financial impacts on council would be devastating and would place a council currently fit for the future into a financial position that would deem it unfit for the future. He said the rate freeze and the loss of Shoalhaven Water revenue would have the biggest impact. Deputy Mayor John Wells told the delegate there was a viable option already for the councils to share costs and services in joint organisations. He says that should be the chosen option. If the merger goes ahead it is estimated there will be heavy job losses, from senior management to clerical staff according to Elizabeth Dixon who represents the Shoalhaven council staff. |
2 February 2016 -
Hi All, further to my previous emails regarding the merger proposal, Council has now provided additional information on Council’s website: http://www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/My-Council/Merge-Proposal-Facts-and-Considerations The website includes further information regarding the case for and against the merger. A printable A4 brochure -390kb (an uncompressed 3MB document is accessible via the SCC URL above) is also available from the website - under “What can I do”- fifth dot point down. This brochure is being delivered to all residents in Shoalhaven via letterbox drop over the next two weeks. |
I do have additional copies should you require hard copies to provide to your community. Please let me know if you have any questions. Kind Regards, Jessica Rippon, Executive Manager-Communications Shoalhaven City Council 02 4429 3270 | 0413806137 Bridge Rd (PO Box 42) Nowra NSW 2541 rippon@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au |
1 Feb 2016 -
Architect Of Council Reform Letter a "Bombshell" - Councillor Watson -By Radio 2ST, Shoalhaven News: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/89072-architect-of-council-reform-letter-a-bombshell-councillor-watson The proposed forced amalgamation of Kiama and Shoalhaven councils has received almost no support across both communities, with even the former president of the Local Government Review Panel apparently opposing it. Shoalhaven City Councillor Greg Watson has received a copy of a letter from a concerned resident to Member for Kiama Gareth Ward. The letter contains quotes from Professor Graham Samson, the author of the report used as the basis of the government's push for council mergers. |
In the letter -75kb, Professor Samson is quoted as saying the Review Panel did not suggest a merger of Kiama and Shoalhaven "in the foreseeable future". It goes on to say "On the information currently available, and given all the other potential merger options around NSW that the Government has decided not to pursue, I cannot see the justification for an amalgamation of Kiama and Shoalhaven at this stage." Mr Watson says the letter is a "bombshell" and the Professor's comments show the Premier has been on "some sort of ego trip and is apparently trying to make a reformist name for himself at our communities' expense." |
25 January 2016 - Council Knocks Back Merger Proposal
Source: Radio 2ST, Nowra, Shoalhaven News: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/88979-council-knocks-back-merger-proposal Shoalhaven City Council held an Extraordinary Meeting on Monday (25 January 2016) and voted unanimously to reject the present merger proposal with Kiama as unworkable in its present form. “My view is that this merger proposal, presented in its current form, contains several anomalies, statement of financial processes and rating proposals that could well jeopardise Shoalhaven City’s capability to grow and retain its Fit for the Future status,” said Mayor Joanna Gash. “The financial figures within the proposal document simply do not add up. Additionally, the figures in the report do not reflect the Fit for the Future criteria of the State Government.” “Furthermore, there are flaws in the assumptions of the supporting KPMG report. |
We have concerns the report does not adequately display the true costs of the merger.” “The proposal is also silent on Shoalhaven Water.” “It is therefore found that the merger proposal is unworkable in its present format as no long term benefits have been explained,” said Clr Gash. “Council has supported and continues to support the need, rationale and principles of Local Government reform. Council will continue to maintain an open and positive dialogue with the State Government on all advice, issues and concerns and leave the door open for further submissions.” [Ed: PS: on Wed 3 Feb 2016 - Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemen's Club - 2:00pm - 5:00pm - Nowra Public Inquiry - NSW Govt Delegate - see below] |
Proposed Councils Amalgamation - Public Inquiry - NSW Govt Delegate
- Wed 3 Feb 2016 - Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemen's Club - 2:00pm - 5:00pm - Junction St, Nowra
- Wed 3 Feb 2016 - Kiama Leagues Club - 9:00am - 12:00pm - Terralong St, Kiama
Web: https://www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au/proposals/kiama-municipal-and-shoalhaven-city-councils/#meetings
The public inquiry is part of the examination and reporting process conducted by the Delegate and provides an opportunity for members of the public to express their opinions on the proposal to the Delegate.
Members of the public who would like to attend are requested to register using the on-line registration form via the above URL or by contacting 1300 813 020. Members of the public who would like to speak at the inquiry are requested to indicate that they wish to do so when they register to attend.
Members of the public may only speak once at the inquiry and the order of speaking will be determined by the Delegate. Registrations to speak will close at 12noon on Friday 29 January for public inquiries held during the week of 1 February and registrations to speak will close at 12noon on Friday 5 February for public inquiries that are held during the week of 8 February.
- Wed 3 Feb 2016 - Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemen's Club - 2:00pm - 5:00pm - Junction St, Nowra
- Wed 3 Feb 2016 - Kiama Leagues Club - 9:00am - 12:00pm - Terralong St, Kiama
Web: https://www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au/proposals/kiama-municipal-and-shoalhaven-city-councils/#meetings
The public inquiry is part of the examination and reporting process conducted by the Delegate and provides an opportunity for members of the public to express their opinions on the proposal to the Delegate.
Members of the public who would like to attend are requested to register using the on-line registration form via the above URL or by contacting 1300 813 020. Members of the public who would like to speak at the inquiry are requested to indicate that they wish to do so when they register to attend.
Members of the public may only speak once at the inquiry and the order of speaking will be determined by the Delegate. Registrations to speak will close at 12noon on Friday 29 January for public inquiries held during the week of 1 February and registrations to speak will close at 12noon on Friday 5 February for public inquiries that are held during the week of 8 February.
29 January 2016 -
Kiama Council Deemed Fit For The Future - Report Published Radio 2ST, Shoalhaven News: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/89064-kiama-council-deemed-fit-for-the-future-report As pressure mounts on the state government over its proposed forced mergers, a report commissioned by Kiama Municipal Council shows the council is “Fit for the Future” and can meet benchmarks established by the Office of Local Government. The revised Fit for the Future Action Plan will be presented to Council when it meets on Tuesday night. |
It will also be presented to delegate Greg Wright when he conducts a public inquiry on Wednesday. The Council’s original submission to IPART in June 2015 found that Council was not fit for the future according to one criteria. A review of the original submission was conducted by consultants Morrison Low which found that using a different time frame for estimates, the council would in fact meet the criteria to be fit for the future. Shoalhaven City Council and Kiama Municipal have rejected the forced merger. |
19 January 2016 - NSW Govt updated position paper -570kb on proposed Shoalhaven-Kiama merger
As might be expected, this revised State Government paper paints the merger proposal in a rosy light, but ratepayers and staff should read the fine print, e.g. proposed saving of $6Mill on senior management roles, and $32Mill on back office and admin roles. And reducing from 13 + 9 = 22 Councillors, down to 13 altogether.
Not considered was the potential costs of a de-amalgamation down the line (in the event it doesn't work) as happened in 2013 to four Councils in Queensland, including the former (and again from 2014) Noosa Shire Council - refce, see at QLD LGAQ link: http://lgaq.asn.au/de-amalgamation
As might be expected, this revised State Government paper paints the merger proposal in a rosy light, but ratepayers and staff should read the fine print, e.g. proposed saving of $6Mill on senior management roles, and $32Mill on back office and admin roles. And reducing from 13 + 9 = 22 Councillors, down to 13 altogether.
Not considered was the potential costs of a de-amalgamation down the line (in the event it doesn't work) as happened in 2013 to four Councils in Queensland, including the former (and again from 2014) Noosa Shire Council - refce, see at QLD LGAQ link: http://lgaq.asn.au/de-amalgamation
8 January 2016 - update from Council on proposed amalgamation with Kiama - submissions by 28 February 2016
Hi All, Today Council has released a Discussion Paper -840kb outlining a number of facts and figures regarding the State Government’s proposal for a merger between Kiama and Shoalhaven Council. The discussion paper is attached for you to send to your communities. A copy will also be available on our website. This is a very important document for you and your community to review. You are encouraged to understand the facts about the merger and to form your own opinion about what it means for you and our City. The Office Local Government has now appointed Council with a delegate, Greg Wright, to undertake consultation in both Council areas. The delegate, Mr Wright, will facilitate the public meetings where members of the public and council will be able to make their presentations. We have not been provided with dates for these public meetings yet , but will make them available once this is known [update - on 3 Feb 2016 - see below]. Details about the considerations and process that Mr Wright must undertake are provided at: http://shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/My-Council/Fit-For-the-Future-Merge-Proposal |
To help you understand all the facts and communicate these to your communities we are also proposing to hold a briefing for CCBs and will advise you of a date and time for this in the near future. The submission period for you to make comment about the proposal, which can be accessed at: https://www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au/proposals/kiama-municipal-and-shoalhaven-city-councils/ , is now open. Written submissions close 5.00pm, Sunday 28 February 2016 and can be submitted either online via the URL above, or by mail to: GPO Box 5341, Sydney NSW 2001 A NSW Government background and FAQ website is at: https://www.councilboundaryreview.nsw.gov.au/ Kind regards, Jessica Rippon Community Engagement and Communications Shoalhaven City Council 02 4429 3545 | 0413806137 Bridge Rd (PO Box 42) Nowra NSW 2541 rippon@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au www.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au |
Mon 25 January 2016 - Shoalhaven extraordinary meeting - proposed merger with Kiama
South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3666362/council-to-hold-extraordinary-meeting-to-discuss-merger-proposal/?cs=203
Shoalhaven City Council will hold an extraordinary meeting at the Nowra Administration Building on Monday, January 25 from 4pm to discuss the merger proposal with Kiama Municipal Council. Councillors Andrew Guile, Greg Watson and Amanda Findley have called for the meeting regarding the proposal.
Acting General Manager, Carmel Krogh said council was meeting with the state government delegate, Greg Wright on Tuesday, January 21 to seek further information.
“An analysis of information will be available at the extraordinary meeting,” Mrs Krogh said.
“It is important to provide both council and the community with the most factual information about the proposal. For this reason, council has issued a comprehensive discussion paper on its website which members of the community are encouraged to read.
“It should also be noted that we are bound by the Office of Local Government’s guidelines during the merger proposal period.
“Council is working hard to ensure that information is provided to our community as soon as it is available to council and we will continue to update the council website with information as it comes to hand.”
South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3666362/council-to-hold-extraordinary-meeting-to-discuss-merger-proposal/?cs=203
Shoalhaven City Council will hold an extraordinary meeting at the Nowra Administration Building on Monday, January 25 from 4pm to discuss the merger proposal with Kiama Municipal Council. Councillors Andrew Guile, Greg Watson and Amanda Findley have called for the meeting regarding the proposal.
Acting General Manager, Carmel Krogh said council was meeting with the state government delegate, Greg Wright on Tuesday, January 21 to seek further information.
“An analysis of information will be available at the extraordinary meeting,” Mrs Krogh said.
“It is important to provide both council and the community with the most factual information about the proposal. For this reason, council has issued a comprehensive discussion paper on its website which members of the community are encouraged to read.
“It should also be noted that we are bound by the Office of Local Government’s guidelines during the merger proposal period.
“Council is working hard to ensure that information is provided to our community as soon as it is available to council and we will continue to update the council website with information as it comes to hand.”
21 January 2016 - Clock ticks down on a very odd [merger] deal
Editorial, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3678574/clock-ticks-down-on-a-very-odd-deal/?cs=205 You wouldn’t be a happy shareholder if the company in which you had equity was targeted for a takeover on terms that did not make sense and did not add up. You’d hold onto your shares until a better offer came along, surely. So it is a little mystifying as the deadline looms for submissions into the NSW government’s proposed merger of Shoalhaven and Kiama councils that our council hasn’t come out and said, “No deal.” On the basis of the written proposal, which Mayor Joanna Gash concedes is fundamentally flawed, this merger should be given a wide berth. First, apart from a very loose projection of a possible $53 million saving over a long term and a sum of around $11 million to compensate for the cost of the merger, the losses apparent in the proposal outweigh the benefit. A four-year rate freeze only delays an inevitable rate hike down the track. Estimates range from 27 per cent for an average Shoalhaven property up to 50 per cent for more valuable blocks. Second, the sheer geography of the merged council will present huge challenges for the delivery of services, which are, as anyone whose road home is pockmarked with potholes will tell you, already difficult. |
Third, no one enjoys being dragged to the negotiating table under duress. The unreasonable deadline set on public submissions means many Shoalhaven residents simply won’t have the time to engage in the process. While Kiama council has communicated the merger proposal to its residents via two mail-outs, Shoalhaven has left that to its website. Many local residents are elderly and not computer-literate; many property owning ratepayers don’t reside in the Shoalhaven. This group of people will be left in the dark. The one public inquiry meeting at which residents can voice their opinions and concerns is scheduled for Wednesday, February 3 at 2pm in Nowra. Ulladulla people will find it difficult to attend while those working will find it almost impossible. A proposal that omits something as important as Shoalhaven Water simply cannot be taken seriously. If any credible publicly listed company was presented with a proposal like that, it would laugh it off. If it didn’t, its shareholders would revolt. We might have seen the beginning of that revolt on Wednesday night. |
13 January 2016 -
Kiama Community Rejects Proposal to Call Shoalhaven Home Radio 2ST, Shoalhaven News: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/88734-kiama-community-rejects-proposal-to-call-shoalhaven-home It seems no-one in Kiama wants to call Shoalhaven home. There was a massive turnout of Kiama residents opposed to the proposed merger with Shoalhaven City Council. Up to 1400 people crammed into the extraordinary meeting and then joined in a community rally afterwards. |
At the same time, Shoalhaven City councillors were thrashing out how they want to deal with the shock proposal. Mayor Jo Gash says there's no point asking the community to respond until the details of the pros and cons are clear. Kiama Council has allocated $50,000 for a public awareness campaign. Mayor Gash says she won't be pressured into making a hasty decision. [Ed: Kiama Council have prepared an Information Sheet -1.2MB] |
12 January 2016 -
Concern State Government Has Eyes On Shoalhaven Water Radio 2ST, Shoalhaven News: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/88697-concern-state-government-has-eyes-on-shoalhaven-water The proposed merger of Shoahaven City Council with Kiama Council has raised concerns Shoalhaven will lose a divdend it earns from the management of Shoalhaven Water. General manager Russ Pigg raised the issue at a briefing on Friday and councillor Andrew Guile has waved the warning flag about the future of Shoalhaven Water. He says the imminent loss of Shoalhaven Water is now very real as a result of the Fit for the Future process. “Having two separate water and sewerage suppliers in one Council area is not a realistic option. |
Two sets of charges, policies, service levels and developer contributions would not just be confusing but would also be highly inefficient and ultimately inequitable. “Fundamental to the Shoalhaven City Council bottom line, is the annual dividend paid by Shoalhaven Water which amounts to $2.5 million a year. On top of this, there has been a management practice over many years for significant administrative costs to be covered by Shoalhaven Water. This has had the effect of keeping Shoalhaven rates relatively low in comparison to Kiama – though not the entire 45% lower by any means. Sydney Water also pays a dividend though it goes straight back to the NSW Treasury." Mayor Joanna Gash and senior Shoalhaven City staff will hold a councillor briefing on the impact of the proposed merger tonight (Tuesday 12 January). |
8 Jan 2016 -
Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna [Gash] says merger proposal needs clarification - By John Hanscombe, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3652839/merger-figures-dont-add-up-says-gash/?cs=203 They’ve looked at the Shoalhaven-Kiama merger proposal and both Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash and general manager Russ Pigg say the figures just don’t add up. At a media briefing on Friday, Cr Gash and Mr Pigg, along with other Shoalhaven councillors and directors, said they needed further clarification before they could take a position in favour or against the proposed merger. A key sticking point was the four-year freeze on rate increases that would be imposed on a merged council. Mr Pigg said the freeze effectively undid the strategy put forward by council to meet its Fit for the Future guidelines. “Kiama and Shoalhaven in their 10 year financial projections for their Fit for the Future application that was assessed by IPART had an inbuilt projected rate increase in later years,” Mr Pigg said. “We had above rate pegging increases from 2017-18 for two years, 7.5 per cent above rate pegging in both those years, really to achieve a revenue stream to meet the criteria set by IPART and the government, particularly to meet the operating performance ratio and also give us enough revenue to renew infrastructure and the like.” Unlike Wollongoing and Shellharbour, which had rate increases already approved before the merger process began, Shoalhaven and Kiama would have to get by on their current rates revenue. “That’s got a serious outcome from a financial management point of view, Mr Pigg said. While ratepayers might rejoice at having their rates frozen for four years, “the time they get to the fourth year and the fifth year there is quite a deep black hole of lost revenue opportunity and the merged council just won’t have the funds to provide the services or deal with that infrastructure need”, Mr Pigg said. Another major concern was that a merged council would have two water utilities, Shoalhaven Water in the south and Sydney Water in the north. Both utilities operate under separate legislation and have no physical connectivity. |
”There are very different pricing structures, there’s very different treatment of pensioner rebates, there’s differences for development. You’ll end up with this two-tiered process of dealing with developers and a two tiered process of dealing with pensioners,” Mr Pigg said. There will also be a two-tired rates system for the first four years. The average residential rates in Kiama are 45 per cent higher than they are in Shoalhaven. “That disparity will be locked in for four years,” Mr Pigg said. Cr Gash said it would be an awkward arrangement. “If you’ve got people in Kiama having better parks and gardens, which they do have because they’re paying extra rates, and compare it people across this side, who haven’t go it, how do you explain the inequity of those sort of things?” she said. Despite these serious questions over the proposal, Cr Gash said she would not adopt a position until she had more information. “To come to a decision is a little early at this stage so I’m not going to forced into making a decision a decision as far as this council is concerned,” she said. A councillor briefing is planned for Tuesday, January 12. Cr Gash also wants the community to have its say but that might prove difficult given the timing of the merger announcement. “The timing has been fairly ordinary to say the least, the announcement days before Christmas and over this period,” Mr Pigg said. “We know that our community consultative bodies basically close up shop through December and January - they don’t really get activated again until February.” Mr Pigg urged every resident and ratepayer to visit the council website and read the discussion paper to inform their opinions. |
8 January 2016 -
Kiama Mayor Slams State Government Over Merger Radio 2ST: http://www.2st.com.au/news/shoalhaven-news/88654-kiama-mayor-slams-state-government-over-merger Kiama Mayor Brian Petschler has criticised the NSW Government’s merger proposal for Kiama and Shoalhaven Councils following its release Wednesday evening. The merger proposal outlines the NSW Government’s reasons for planning to combine Kiama and Shoalhaven municipalities into one large local government area. It was released at the same time as the opening of the public submission period. Mayor Petschler said, “On a preliminary reading of the document, I was surprised at the number of significant errors in the proposal which appears to have been hurriedly thrown together. “In my opinion, it certainly doesn’t enhance the idea of a merger for our residents,” he said. “Major inaccuracies include getting both Councils Special Rate Variations (SRV) as set out in our Fit for the Future proposals wrong.” |
“On page 10, the document puts Kiama’s SRV as 29% cumulative over three years from 2018-19, and Shoalhaven’s at 15.9% cumulative over a two-year period from 2017-18. The correct figure, as included into Kiama’s Fit for the Future proposal was a SRV of 17.4% cumulative from 2018-19 over a three-year period (9.7% above the rate peg limit) and Shoalhaven’s at 21% cumulative over a two-year period (15.9% above the rate peg limit). “The proposal document discusses the distinct differences between Kiama and Shoalhaven LGA’s economies and socioeconomics, and yet ignores them by proceeding with this proposal,” Mayor Petschler said. |
Press Release - 21 December 2015 (text bolding is by HWCV)
By: Amanda Findley, The Greens, Councillor Shoalhaven City Council Tel: 0434 151 730 or 02 4454 1444 Kiama / Shoalhaven Amalgamation: Baird’s Bad Economics don’t add up and cost us democracy and local input. “What is now absolutely clear to me is that Mike's math makes no sense” said Findley after the meeting of Shoalhaven Council on Monday night. “The State Government is like a python, squeezing Council services to death with this year’s proposed rate increase of 1.3% which doesn’t even cover wage increases, running Shoalhaven Council down and then forcing amalgamation on us regardless”. “ I asked the General Manager what the Shoalhaven expected to raise from its planned rate rises over the coming 4 years and was advised that it was expected to net $21 million on current rates.” “ At the current level of Council operations - Shoalhaven City Council needs to raise $21million to offer the current level of services and infrastructure.” “That $21million will not be raised under the State Governments amalgamation plan, as they will freeze rates and give Councils $10million as compensation.” “Shoalhaven will be effectively in deficit $11million after the amalgamation and Kiama is expected to have similar projections.” |
“This amalgamation isn’t about saving the ratepayer money; it’s about centralising power with the Liberal party, making the Liberal party look good because it transferred rate rises to future generations, and removing representation from the community” “With fewer Councillors in the way, we can expect unsustainable development over agricultural land, and becoming another suburb of Shellharbour and corporate developers will be championed.” “The NSW State Liberal party are looking to get a better return on their Princes Highway investment and this is how they will achieve it – by throwing out Council’s and the respective Councillors that get in their way and developers way.” “The State Government wants Shoalhaven and Kiama to amalgamate by 2016 /2017 and have promised no rate increases. To achieve no increases the State Government propose a rate freeze. When the freeze is finished we will have fewer services, less infrastructure, more debt and require higher rates than ever before”. |
“If anyone should be sacked it should be the State Government for grossly misleading the community into thinking that its amalgamation plan will save money in the long run when clearly it won’t!” “The Shoalhaven was declared Fit for the Future on scale and capacity, meaning we are already large enough. People already feel like they don’t get effective representation and that will get worse under an amalgamated Council.” “Kiama ratepayers pay much more than the Shoalhaven, and we do not want the rate burden from these ratepayers transferred to our towns and villages that already struggle.” “The State Government has left the North Coast alone. The North Coast has recently dumped the Liberal party over Coal Seam Gas issue’s and elected The Greens, seems they are concerned about further alienating themselves. ” “The Shoalhaven is traditionally a strong Liberal area and the State Government is taking this support for granted and expect little kick back from our community keeping their big corporate mates happy.” "If our community fail to have their say-then Mayor Gash will most likely get behind the proposal as she has not ruled it out". |
18 December 2015 - Shoalhaven Councillor Andrew Guile says ratepayers will suffer in merger with Kiama
By John Hanscombe, South Coast Register: http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/3585221/council-merger-guile-calls-for-extraordinary-meeting/?cs=203 [The SCR has an Online poll at the above article URL] Opposed: Cllr Andrew Guile says Shoalhaven ratepayers will pay a hefty price for the proposed merger with Kiama Links via URL above: -Gash unsure how Kiama merger would work -Announcement takes wind out of Kiama sails -Councillor foreshadows huge hike in rates -No benefits to this merger: Gareth Ward |
Councillor Andrew Guile has called for an extraordinary meeting of Shoalhaven City Council to prepare an “evidence based” case for the local government area not to be merged with Kiama... [a further EGM is set for 25 January 2016]. “Our ratepayers cannot sustain the level of rating imposed by Kiama Council,” he said. “The process in the merger involves an averaging out of rates over the two local government areas. Kiama has enjoyed a very high level of services but it has paid for them with rates that are much higher than the Shoalhaven’s.” Cr Guile said the averaged out rates structure would be over and above the 25 per cent increase in Shoalhaven rates proposed by Mayor Joanna Gash to meet the NSW government’s Fit for the Future benchmarks. |