On Monday evening I returned to Council as a direct consequence of the resignation of former Councillor Deanna Goodsell. A Countback Election was initiated by the NSW Electoral Commission which thankfully saved our community approximately $180,000 for a by -election.
At the meeting I moved to reduce the overall rate increase by 10 per cent and for that reduction to be applied to the residential sector, it was not supported.
I successfully moved to have a two-year freeze on the footpath trading fees particularly for the Lithgow CBD where there will be major disruption to business when the footpath works start.
I was unsuccessful in having the special parking rate levy on the Lithgow CBD removed but I will continue to fight for its removal in future budgets.
I did not vote for the pay increase for the Councillors and Mayor because I did not consider it appropriate. You now know the outcome of that vote.
I’m back and my role is to challenge and question everything that occurs in the Council and to represent the Community to the best of my abilities. I would encourage you to watch last Monday’s meeting and make up your own mind on the impact I had on the proceedings.