Newcastle councillors defer $70m Civic Park plan
Newcastle councillors have deferred a major plan to revitalise Civic Park and surrounds, citing a $70 million price tag and more pressing community priorities like safer streets and drainage.
Category : Local Government
Massive 25-tonne sandstone heist in Speers Point
Lake Macquarie Council reports a brazen theft of 23 heavy sandstone blocks from The Esplanade. The $10,000 loss prompts a police investigation and a call for public dashcam footage.
ACT pays Instagrammers $35k for Christmas city campaign
The ACT City Renewal Authority has invested $35,000 in a social media campaign, paying local influencers to promote Christmas activities in Civic and Braddon to counter low foot traffic.
Newcastle conduct complaints double, costs up $56k
Code of conduct complaints at Newcastle City Council have doubled in two years, costing ratepayers over $62,000. Nine complaints were lodged, with four still pending. Read the full report.
Teen petitions council for Charlestown basketball court
A 14-year-old basketballer is taking his proposal for a new social court to Lake Macquarie City Council, backed by a 573-signature petition. Will the council approve the plan for Jack Stewart Netball Courts?
Council seeks special disaster funding for landslip victims
Newcastle Council urges state government to provide special disaster funding for 16 households displaced by the New Lambton landslip, facing financial ruin and trauma as insurance support runs out. Read the full story.
Lake Macquarie hunts new CEO, reviews housing plans
Lake Macquarie City Council is set to formally begin its search for a new CEO while also deciding on two significant housing developments that exceed current planning controls. Read the latest.
Perth Lord Mayor faces backlash over culture comments
Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds is under fire for controversial remarks about workplace culture. Can he recover from this messaging misstep? Read the full analysis.
Cairns Council signs $90m garbage contract
Cairns Regional Council has finalised a new 10-year, $90 million waste collection contract with Cleanaway. The deal promises improved services and new jobs for the region.
East Fremantle Council votes to pay itself super
East Fremantle councillors have unanimously voted to receive superannuation payments, backdated to the October elections. The move aligns the Town with larger councils.
Riverton Leisureplex reveals $3m upgrade results
The City of Canning has completed a $3 million upgrade to Riverton Leisureplex, featuring a new pool, improved accessibility, and better facilities for families and wellness groups. Explore the changes.
Cockburn holds line on cheaper developer contributions
The City of Cockburn will maintain lower-than-recommended fees for developers to stimulate local growth. Key decision made in a swift five-minute council meeting. Read the full details.
City of Perth launches major summer safety program
The City of Perth rolls out extra patrols, CCTV and community events to ensure a safe and vibrant CBD this summer and school holidays. Read about the OneCity Together for Summer initiative.
Councillor's $24k car win on council card sparks policy debate
A Gold Coast councillor's $24,000 MG hatch win using a corporate credit card has ignited a debate on council expense policies. Discover the fallout and calls for reform.
Council axes costly cyclist safety box proposal
East Fremantle Council abandons plans for cyclist boxes at major intersections after a report reveals a $480k price tag and questions safety benefits. Read why the project stalled.
Fremantle Council axes contractor after six years
Northlake Electrical loses its City of Fremantle contract despite a lower price bid, as a new tender scores higher on experience. The owner demands a review.
New Mayor Dametto faces first council vote test
Townsville's new Mayor, Nick Dametto, faces his first major council vote on hiring political advisers. Will he secure support for his team?
Townsville Council Hiring 30 Staff for 'Back to Basics' Push
Townsville City Council is recruiting 30 new staff in a major 'back to basics' drive to improve core services like parks, roads, and waste. Mayor Troy Thompson leads the overhaul.
Geelong petition targets 'hoarder house' fire hazard
Frustrated Highton ratepayers are demanding action over a cluttered property on Reigate Road, citing fire risks and vermin. Read their story and sign the petition.
Wanneroo Fights Western Power Over Transmission Line Route
The City of Wanneroo is demanding Western Power relocate or bury a planned 132kV transmission line, arguing it will blight future neighbourhoods and devalue land. Read the full story.
Council arson damage bill blows out to $41 million
The insurance cost for the Lake Macquarie City Council arson attack has surged to $41 million, with court revelations of a 'big developer' connection. Staff may not return until 2027.
Wanneroo Clears $740k in Historical Library Fines
The City of Wanneroo has forgiven over $740,000 in old library fees, clearing the slate for 13,521 members. Mayor Linda Aitken urges residents to return and explore their fine-free local libraries.
Stirling Mayor's second US trip at ratepayer cost
City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin and CEO Stevan Rodic are heading to the US again, with the $30,000+ trip funded by ratepayers. The visit aims to strengthen sister city ties with Anaheim.
Cottesloe Councillor Quits, May Run in Nedlands
Cottesloe councillor Katy Mason has resigned and is moving to Nedlands. She is considering running in the upcoming Nedlands council election. Read the full story.
Canberra Stadium report contradicts Barr's 2035 lifespan claim
A government report reveals Canberra Stadium's use-by date is 2027, conflicting with Chief Minister Andrew Barr's assertion it will last until 2035. Maintenance costs are set to double.
Councillor challenges suspension in Supreme Court
Surf Coast Shire Councillor Paul Barker takes legal action against his suspension, alleging a denial of natural justice. The case could set a precedent for local government disputes.
Canning seeks feedback on Leach Highway digital billboard
The City of Canning is consulting the public on a proposed 12.5m high digital billboard targeting southbound Leach Highway traffic. Have your say by December 22.
Cook labels Perth council drama 'soap opera'
WA Premier Roger Cook has labelled the ongoing turmoil at the City of Perth an 'ongoing soap opera', while backing Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds' efforts. Read the latest.
Hunter council proposes 29% rate rise for mining land
Muswellbrook Shire Council seeks a 29% rate increase exclusively on mining land to safeguard services as coal revenue declines. Public consultation is now open.
Mayor withdraws motion to avoid council 'open warfare'
City of Cockburn Mayor Bruce Reynolds will support revoking his own motion for a workplace culture review to prevent internal conflict. Details on the political manoeuvre inside.
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