Noosa Shire Council’s $22 million cash claim rejected

Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson says his faith has been restored, following the Local Government Minister’s announcement Noosa Shire Council’s ambit claim of $22 million following de-amalgamation has been rejected.

“Our council – and indeed the ratepayers of the Sunshine Coast - welcome Minister Crisafulli’s announcement,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“This council has maintained the position that the methodology and rules agreed to by the Transfer Committee at the beginning of this de-amalgamation process needed to be followed.

“The Sunshine Coast Council had clearly followed that methodology and we are pleased the Minister has essentially agreed with that.

“It was very clear what was and wasn’t owed because Sunshine Coast Council followed the asset split methodology as agreed.

“The Minister’s decision includes two items which were out of our control – the carbon tax and the Unitywater dividend.

“I am pleased our actions have been vindicated.

“Noosa Shire Council will receive everything it is entitled to under de-amalgamation, which was about the same figure produced by the Queensland Treasury Corporation.”

Mayor Jamieson said now the Minister had made his decision, and de-amalgamation was behind them, both councils could get on with the job of delivering great service to their ratepayers.

“Notwithstanding what occurred with de-amalgamation, this council has always been committed to being a good neighbour to Noosa Shire, and now it’s time they get on with governing their own patch so together we can benefit from all that this great region has to offer.

“Sunshine Coast Council is getting on with our job, and we wish our neighbours well.”