The government's controversial forced council amalgamations policy continues to be an issue with Shadow Minister for the Hunter Kate Washington calling for the mergers to be scrapped.
Ms Washington has stated her intentions to meet with new Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Catherine Cusack and discuss the issue.
“As the government's Hunter representative it is vital that Ms Cusack doesn’t just meet with Councils, but also with the residents and businesses who will be negatively impacted by forced mergers.”
The mergers were proposed over a year ago, yet there is still no definitive decision over many council's futures.
The proposed amalgamation between Newcastle and Port Stephens council as well Dungog and Maitland councils are still in limbo, which is having an impact on many council decisions.
The issue was put back in the spotlight when deputy premier Barilaro stated the would be no more 'mergers in the bush', however Ms Cusack says the mergers are a good thing.
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