Cessnock City Council general manager Lotta Jackson has been praised for her commitment to the community following her shock resignation this week.

The hard-working GM tendered her resignation at Wednesday night’s meeting, which councillors accepted in a confidential session.

Ms Jackson will take a period of accrued leave before formally vacating the role on 6 May.

“With the borders finally being open, I’m planning to visit my close and extended family who I haven’t seen for years,” she said.

“The experience of COVID-19 has assisted my decision.

“But, I also believe that this is the best timing with the newly-elected councillors having an opportunity to select a new general manager early in their term.

“I wish to thank the mayor and councillors, senior colleagues and all staff during my time as GM, starting with bushfires, floods, the pandemic and more floods.

“The community is in good hands with mayor Jay Suvaal.

“I know that the future is bright for the Cessnock LGA and that it will be a continued growing and thriving place to live, work and visit.”

Some of the key achievements during Ms Jackson’s time as general manager include completing Bridges Hill Park Playground; constructing Gingers Lane, and the Government Road and Hart Road roundabout; building Paynes Crossing Bridge; completing the Local Strategic Planning Statement; formalising the agreement with Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association; implementing the Buy Local campaign and undertaking many economic stimulus grants and community resilience grants that followed the bush fires; supporting the community during COVID-19 with our libraries and youth services; and assisting council’s committed staff.

In 2020/21 alone, the Customer Service staff attended to 85,000 phone calls.

Cr Suvaal thanked Ms Jackson for her service to both the council and the broader Cessnock community.

“Lotta had the difficult job of leading the organisation during a period of unprecedented challenges, which have included catastrophic bushfires, major flooding and a once-in-100-year pandemic,” he said.

“She always tried to put the community first.

“I personally thank Lotta for the support she has shown me as mayor and wish her all the best for her next endeavours.”

Council’s director of corporate and community services Robert Maginnity has been appointed to act in the role of general manager until recruitment for an interim or permanent replacement occurs.

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