A common sense approach is being urged to be used when the NSW government appoints the Hunter's next Parliamentary Secretary for the region.
Catherine Cusak resigned from the role yesterday, after sending a scathing nine page email to Premier Gladys Berejinklian which was leaked to the media.
Chair of the Hunter Joint Organisation of Councils Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent, is calling for Scot MacDonald to be reinstated to the role.
Cr Pynsent believes Scot MacDonald is the obvious choice, and he isn't the only one calling for the former secretary to be reinstated.
"I've spoken to a number of mayors this morning and the consensus is this would be the best option for the wider Hunter," he said.
Maitland Mayor Peter Blackmore also supports Scot MacDonald returning to his position as he had 'supported us [the Hunter Joint Organisation] magnificently'.
There are concerns a representative with limited local knowledge could take on the role, which many agree wouldn't be good for the region.
Muswellbrook Shire Mayor Martin Rush is of the same opinion, sharing concerns around appointing a representative with limited local knowledge; especially when appointing Scot MacDonald would mean there is someone in the role who "already has a strong understanding of the challenges unique to our area".
At a media conference with Shadow Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe this morning, Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp expressed the same views.
He said, "this government is divided and dysfunctional. Now, we need a minister for the Hunter at the cabinet table, to put a strong voice for the people of Newcastle and the Hunter".
