OBERON councillors and senior staff had a three-hour meeting with Boundaries Commission delegate Renata Brooks last Thursday as part of the consultation process for the proposed merger between Bathurst and Oberon.
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Oberon mayor Kathy Sajowitz said the councillors and senior staff briefly outlined their response to the proposed merger, addressing the required criteria.
“We reiterated the fact that we rigorously oppose the proposed merger as we can see little benefit in such an action,” she said.
“Council found Ms Brooks very professional in her approach and we are confident of a fair hearing at this level.”
Oberon’s public inquiry meeting will be held today at the Oberon Showground at 1pm and Bathurst’s public inquiry meeting will be held at Bathurst Panthers later in the evening.
“Although attendees were required to register, I put the question to Ms Brooks that should a non-registered resident wish to attend either meeting would they be admitted,” Cr Sajowitz said.
“Her response was that ‘provided there was space safely available this could be accommodated’.”
It has been suggested attendees arrive 45 minutes before the scheduled starting time of 1pm to allow this assessment to be made.
Cr Sajowitz said written submissions will be received up until Sunday, February 28.
“Although uploading your submission online is the preference of the delegate, fax is another alternative. Council are more than happy to assist with this whether you are in support of or against this proposal,” she said.
Cr Sajowitz said Greens MP David Shoebridge will be back in Oberon to talk with council and the community about amalgamation on Friday, February 12 at 10am at the Community Centre.
Following the close of submissions, Ms Brooks will provide a report to the Boundaries Commissioner for comment and the final report will then be sent to the Minister for Local Government for a decision.
The final announcement, which will be announced by proclamation of the Governor is expected on 30 June 2016.