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Forced NSW council mergers claim more scalps
26 Feb 2004
Four northern New South Wales councils have been merged into one: the existing councils of Grafton City, Maclean Shire, most of Pristine Waters and Copmanhurst - and part of Richmond Valley - have been merged into the newly-created Clarence Valley Council. The new council area will cover about 45,000 residents.
The NSW Government has appointed the former mayor of Copmanhurst, Neil Payne, as administrator and postponed local elections until March 5, 2005.
The NSW Local Government Minister, Tony Kelly, announced the merger yesterday and said it would result in a one-off saving of at least $5.2 million and annual savings of $1.5 million.
But former Maclean Shire mayor and head of the No Amalgamations Committee, Chris Gulaptis, said the only way that savings can be made is if rates are increased or services are cut.
Sydney Morning Herald, 26/2/04.
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