UPDATE: Former Toowoomba Region Councillor and Pittsworth Shire Mayor Ros Scotney OAM has voiced urgent concerns regarding the deterioration of services since the amalgamation of eight local governments into the Toowoomba Regional Council. This growing discontent has led Scotney and a committee of former councillors to advocate for the establishment of a new shire, as residents express their frustration.
Scotney emphasizes the need for immediate action. “In 2008, when amalgamation was upon us, we were assured by then Premier Peter Beattie that nothing would change regarding budget allocations,” she stated. However, she claims that promises were broken, and rural communities are now suffering from reduced funding and services.
The committee, which includes former local government dignitaries, is working on boundary proposals for a new shire that would encompass areas from the former Clifton, Pittsworth, and Millmerran shires, as well as parts of the former Cambooya and Jondaryan shires. Key locations such as Greenmount and Felton are expected to be included.
Scotney reports a growing sense of disillusionment among residents. “It appears that bureaucracy is now ruling Council in its decision-making,” she noted, reflecting on the challenges locals face in communicating with council officials. She added that the latest rate increase does not match the investment in rural services, which has declined significantly over the years.
Conversations with residents reveal a deep-seated frustration with the current administration. “Many feel that the focus has shifted towards Toowoomba and Highfields,” Scotney explained. As the committee continues to gather support, they plan to hold public meetings to discuss the new shire proposal with the community.
The urgency of the situation is palpable as Scotney and her committee rally for change. “It breaks my heart to see how things are being run,” she said, echoing the concerns of other former officials like Anne Glasheen, a former Clifton Shire Deputy Mayor, and Paul Antonio, a former Millmerran Shire Mayor.
As the campaign gains momentum, residents are encouraged to engage with the process, with public meetings scheduled across the proposed area. The outcome of this grassroots movement could reshape local governance and restore a sense of community for those feeling neglected by current council practices.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation as the push for a new shire continues to unfold.
