A first-time local government election candidate says Lockhart Shire needs to look at changing its borders to protect its future.
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Philip Bouffler commended the current council for its work to fight against being merged with another shire, but said more needs to be done to ensure Lockhart’s future.
The fourth-generation farmer played a role in the steering committee set up to fight the proposed merger between Lockhart, Urana and Corowa.
“We have to position ourselves for the future,” Mr Bouffler said.
“The state government is all over the shop – we’ve got to be proactive to avoid (any chance of being merged with another council).”
Mr Bouffler said Wagga could shed some of the outlying villages to its south west, to become a more city-centric council, and moving them to Lockhart – a more rural council.
“Wagga City Council is a city council by name only,” he said.
“It could concentrate on becoming more city-focused.”
Mr Bouffler said Albury had modified its boundaries to become more of a city council, leaving the outer areas for shire councils to look after.
He said the outgoing councillors were blindsided by the amalgamation announcement and did well to navigate through the storm to remain independent.
“The last council had no idea (council mergers) were coming,” Mr Bouffler said.
“The next council will be fully aware.”
Departing Lockhart mayor Peter Yates said modifying borders was one piece in a complicated puzzle to remain viable.
“I believe the new council will have to keep their options open to other alternatives to sustain the shire into the future,” Councillor Yates said, adding he had held informal talks with Wagga council over possible boundary changes. He said both councils had built a good rapport over the years he has served.