Hinchliffe referral to Change Commission welcomed
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On the matter of proposed boundary changes between Livingstone and Rockhampton, Mayor Bill Ludwig said Minister Hinchliffe must be commended on his continuing commitment in helping our two Councils find a consensus way forward.
“Last year our Council was pleased to play a role in helping shape and then endorsing the terms of reference for a possible boundary change,” Cr Ludwig said.
“In doing so our discussions with the Minister were very open and frank that our support for the process would be conditional on there being no adverse impacts on Livingstone ratepayers or Council’s long-term financial plans and sustainability.
“With those terms of reference now put forward to the Local Government Change Commission for independent assessment and determination, I agree with Minister Hinchliffe that this is a positive step forward.
“Council also welcomes the Minister’s assurances that both Councils must ultimately agree to before any proposed change takes place.
“The other important stipulation from Minister Hinchliffe is that all Livingstone residents will be afforded the opportunity to participate in a referendum on the matter once all the Commission’s recommendations and information is available for their consideration.
“Council will be suggesting that a referendum could take place in conjunction with the 2020 Local Government elections in March next year.
“With goodwill and reciprocal respect I believe boundary changes could occur once again providing they are supported by our community.
“Previous boundary changes between Livingstone and Rockhampton have been successfully negotiated and delivered with positive outcomes for both local government areas and our respective residents.”