Council recently reassured ratepayers that they won’t have to fund its planned move to Biripi Way in Taree. 

According to a draft financing strategy, funding for the $20 million office design and fit-out would come from a combination of savings realised through the merger ($7.2 million), sale of property assets ($4.8 million), and borrowings of up to $8 million, with repayments funded by leasing current administration buildings.

“The strategy clearly identifies that no special rate variation would be required for the project, and that operational funding for programs such as Council’s road improvement and capital works programs would remain untouched,” general manager, Adrian Panuccio said.

Information about the project can be found at www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/headoffice, flyers will be delivered to letterboxes across the council this week, information sessions are planned or you can request to host your own.

Council’s aim is to ensure the community has an opportunity to find out more about the head office project and the draft financing strategy, so they can provide informed feedback during the consultation phase.

Planned sessions are:

Or you can request to host a session.

If you’re interested in applying to host a session in your community, please complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form via www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/Have-Your-Say/Biripi-Way-Office-Centralisation

To host a session, you’ll need to arrange a suitable venue and be responsible for letting your community know when and where the session will be held

There are limited spaces available, so locations will be selected based on ensuring a good geographical coverage and expected attendance

Complete an Expression of Interest to host an additional session here. EOIs close at 6pm on Friday November 30.

The consultation phase closes on Friday, December 14.