29 January 2020

Balranald Shire residents deserve a democratically elected local council as soon as possible

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) firmly believes a democratically elected Balranald Shire Council must be able to be in place, as soon as possible.

LGNSW President Cr Linda Scott said the residents of Balranald Shire have a right to choose their council at this year's local government elections in September 2020.

Cr Scott was speaking after Local Government Minister Shelley Hancock announced the council had been dismissed and replaced by administrator Mike Colreavy until 2024.

“Appointing an administrator to perform the role of the mayor and councillors until 2024 undermines our democracy," Cr Scott said.

"Four years is simply too long for the Balranald community to have to wait for a strong council, understanding of local needs and issues, and representative of their community.”

The Intergovernmental Agreement, signed at the LGNSW conference in October, commits both levels of government to work together to ease the administrative and financial burden placed on local councils, including Balranald Shire Council.

“Experience shows an effective and strong partnership between the local government sector and the State Government is the best way to drive positive policy outcomes for the people of NSW,” Cr Scott said.

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