COUNCIL AMALGAMATION TALKS MUST START NOW

LAUNCESTON City Council must show leadership in pushing for urgent rationalisation in the number of Tasmanian Councils.

Alderman candidate Tom Ellison said with a population of just half a million, it was ludicrous for Tasmania to be supporting 29 Councils.

“Those with entrenched positions will no doubt be opposed to any reduction in the number of Councils,’’ Mr Ellison said.

“But smaller Local Government areas, and those without sustainable revenue bases must be dragged to the negotiating table, kicking and screaming if necessary.’’

Smaller Councils needed to adopt a realistic approach to their financial viability in future years, Mr Ellison said.

“Nobody likes seeing rate increases, but without urgent action, some areas face spiralling rates, and cuts to basic services if action isn’t taken now,’’ Mr Ellison said.

“The cost savings can be significant. Simply by pooling resources, and scrapping regional authorities of questionable value such as Northern Tasmania Development, immediate financial synergies can be achieved.’’

Mr Ellison said the benefit of NTD to its shareholder members is dubious.

“For an organisation paid to promote Northern Tasmania, the fact NTD’s website is more than six years out of date outrageous,’’ he said.

“If an investor were to believe NTD, Tasmania is still looking forward to Basslink, a second Bass Strait Ferry, and the Natural Gas Pipeline.’’

“A Greater Northern Council would have the skill and experience to do a far better job, while saving ratepayers money,’’ he said.
Tom Ellison , Launceston City Council candidate, ellisonmedia@hotmail.com