THE Oberon community is taking a stand against forced amalgamation – and it is willing to put up a fight.
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A No Amalgamation Committee has been formed in the town and it is calling on the community for support.
The committee met this week after news that an independent tribunal assessing each of the state’s 152 councils as part of the Fit for The Future reforms will report back to the NSW Government in October with its recommendations, and that Bathurst Regional Council is being suggested as a suitable partner for Oberon Council.
Committee member Marjorie Armstrong said the committee is concerned that Oberon Council may be forced to amalgamate with Bathurst, creating a super council that will possibly eliminate local representatives.
She said members are concerned jobs could be lost in council’s administration and outdoor staff, and Oberon could lose many services provided to local ratepayers.
The committee feels so strongly about fighting forced amalgamation that it has teamed up with a Save Our Council Committee from Mosman and will protest outside Minister for Local Government Paul Toole’s Bathurst office on Monday, September 7.
Mrs Armstrong said the committee is inviting concerned residents to join the protest.
Those interested are asked to include their name on a list located at Oberon Council’s administration office.
The committee will call a public meeting in Oberon in the near future to inform the community and to give residents the opportunity to express their views on possible amalgamation.
The committee is also seeking support from the Oberon Youth Council.
Mrs Armstrong has urged members of the community to write to Mr Toole to object to amalgamation.
People are encouraged to join the committee, and can call Marjorie Armstrong on 6336 1760 or email mj.armstrong@westnet.com.au.