Lake Macquarie has a new Deputy Mayor, with West Ward Councillor Kate Warner elected to the position at last night’s Ordinary Council meeting.
Cr Warner was elected Deputy Mayor on Monday, 28 September, and will serve in the role for the next 12 months, taking over from Cr Colin Grigg.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz welcomed Cr Warner to the role, saying he was looking forward to working alongside her over the coming year.
“As Cr Warner takes on the role of Deputy Mayor, I’m looking forward to the new outlook, enthusiasm and leadership she will bring as we continue to evolve our service to the Lake Macquarie community,” Cr Shultz said.
He also thanked Cr Grigg for his work as Deputy Mayor over the past year.
“His experience and unwavering devotion to serving our community have been greatly appreciated, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside him,” he said.
Cr Shultz said collaboration would remain a key focus as the new Deputy Mayor settles into the role.
“Strong collaboration and a shared commitment to our community are at the heart of everything we do,” he said.
In a separate decision, councillors endorsed a submission opposing proposed changes to the way Financial Assistance Grants are distributed by the NSW Local Government Grants Commission.
Council estimates the proposed changes could reduce Lake Macquarie City Council’s grant funding by about $7.2 million in the first year.
It forecasts the reduction could reach about $85 million over 10 years.
Financial Assistance Grants provide untied funding to councils to support the delivery of infrastructure, community facilities and services.
Council is calling for further consultation and refinement of the proposed changes, with its submission stating the grants are an important source of funding for local government.
The recommendations are linked to Council’s long-term planning priorities, including supporting a diverse economy, connected communities and protection of the natural the environment.
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