Former outspoken Cessnock councillor Ian Olsen says the community should accept the proposed almost 40 per cent rate increase, warning it may be the only way to prevent the council from being placed into administration after more than a decade of Labor-led councils under former mayors Bob Pynsant and Jay Suvaal.
Olsen argued that the worst possible outcome for the Cessnock Local Government Area would be the dismissal of all councillors and the appointment of an administrator.
“Once an administrator comes in, the people lose their voice,” Olsen said, warning that administration could also lead to the sale of council assets and larger Rate Rises with little community input.
He also raised concerns about the budget process, claiming that council staff prepare the budget and provide it to councillors just seven days before they are required to vote on it, despite its long-term financial implications.
Olsen further claimed that current Labor councillors are supportive of the council being placed into administration, a move he says would remove democratic representation from local residents.
Cessnock Council has faced increasing scrutiny over its financial position, with the proposed rate increase sparking strong debate across the community.
Council has not publicly responded to Olsen’s claims at the time of publication.
