I have today welcomed the Minister for Local Government, The Hon Wendy Tuckerman’s announcement of Central Coast’s local government election to be held on 14 September 2024.

The Proclamation also outlines the continuation of my term of appointment as Council’s Administrator up until the election date set. At this stage, I plan to continue as Central Coast’s Administrator and look forward to continuing to work with the Central Coast community to deliver the best outcome for the region.

While I’ve always been in favour of democracy, I am firmly of the opinion that sacked councillors should not be allowed to run for council in a subsequent election, and I will continue to make representations to the NSW Government on this issue.

Experience has shown that when previous councillors return from a period of administration, the risk of deterioration increases dramatically. Holding local government elections in 2024, I can only hope will attract new people to the councillor role.

This announcement now provides Council with a date to work towards and time to implement the Public Inquiry Commissioner’s recommendations.

Council has made significant progress in stabilising the organisation, holding local government elections in 2024 allows Council to ensure a solid foundation for a newly elected body.

Rik Hart, Administrator