The commission has called for written submissions from ‘interested persons and affected councils’, closing on August 14. Those making submissions should also indicate whether they wish to speak at the inquiry hearings.

The commission will hold public inquiry hearings at a time and venue to be advised.

A list of 11 factors to which the Boundaries Commission must have regard to are listed in a letter to councils and media advertising in local papers (see page 3).

These include financial advantages, community of interest, historical and traditional values, attitude of residents and ratepayers, provision of services and employment of staff.

Guyra Shire Council has called a public meeting to better inform Guyra Shire residents on the upcoming Boundaries Commission hearings. The meeting will be held at the Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club on Friday, July 30 starting at 6pm.

The meeting comes after repeated calls by a number of local residents concerned about a perceived lack of community consultation and involvement in the amalgamation debate.

It will also provide an opportunity for members of the community to voice their views on the proposal and Council’s response thus far to the review of the former New England Strategic Alliance of Councils.

Mayor Hans Hietbrink encourages all members of our Shire community to attend the meeting, and also make submissions to the Boundaries Commission at Locked Bag A5045 Sydney South, 1235 prior to August 14.