Glenorchy City Council has unanimously voted to reject amalgamation discussions with the City of Hobart, with one councillor accusing their neighbours of an “ambush”.
All 10 councillors at Tuesday afternoon’s meeting backed a motion declining to take part in the ‘Council of Clark’ merger process proposed by Hobart in November.
The decision follows a motion passed by Hobart City Council calling for both councils to hold an elector poll on amalgamation at the next local government elections.
Glenorchy councillors said the proposal was sprung on them without consultation and had unsettled the community.
“We do not want to take Hobart over,” Councillor Steven King said.
He said the proposal had ‘put the community on edge’ by being imposed without warning.
Councillor Shane Alderton said he was “disappointed” by Hobart’s handling of the matter. “They ambushed us,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Russell Yaxley said there appeared to be no appetite among residents for a merger.
“There is no community groundswell from our community,” he said.
“There is no wave coming through that this is a priority.”
“I don’t support progressing amalgamation talks at this time. There is a need for reform, but I think it needs to be state-led.”
Councillor Stuart Slade pointed to Glenorchy’s debt-free status as evidence the council was performing well.
“Some other councils should take a bit of a look at how we operate and see how far we’ve come,” he said.
He said councils could work together to save ratepayers money without merging.
Councillor Peter Ridler said he did not want staff “wasting their time” on the proposal, but said the council should still be prepared in case the state government forces amalgamations.
A report prepared by Glenorchy City Council CEO Emilio Reale said the council is in a strong financial position, with no debt, low residential rates and a fully funded asset renewal program.
The report warned that merging with Hobart could place upward pressure on rates for Glenorchy residents due to the councils’ different cost structures.
Glenorchy’s average residential rates sit at $2,196, compared to Hobart’s $3,827.
The council said it remains open to reform as part of a coordinated, statewide process.
The decision will now be communicated to Hobart City Council and Local Government Minister Kerry Vincent.
