“Unfortunately, this decision means that we continue to operate with no clear future as we wait for the outcome of the Strathfield court case,” Mayor McCaffrey said.
“This Council’s position has always been that we would prefer to remain a stand-alone Council. Given today’s announcement and the Premier’s comment that one size does not fit all, the question remains, why is there a distinction and lack of equity between regional and Sydney Councils? Why are financially stable Councils like Canada Bay still faced with amalgamation while regional Councils are not?
“The City of Canada Bay has consistently demonstrated leadership through sound stewardship and governance and has been recognised both within local government and the broader industry for our innovation and achievements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers independent auditor’s report on Council’s financial position in August 2016 found that the City of Canada Bay exceeds industry benchmarks in all six ‘Fit for the Future’ Key Performance Indicators.
“The City of Canada Bay has demonstrated that we are prepared to make difficult decisions and act in the best long-term interests of our community, and we will continue to do this for as long as we remain a local Council,” said Mayor Helen McCaffrey.
Under the NSW Government's plan to reform local government, City of Canada Bay has been slated to merge with neighbouring Burwood and Strathfield Councils.