The Local Government and Shires Association of NSW (LGSA) has expressed its disappointment over the State Government's decision against extending the decision date by which councils must decide how they are running their elections from 30 November 2011 to 31 March 2012.

 

The LGSA said it received an 'unsatisfactory response' from Premier Barry O'Farrell, who announced he will not be pursuing changes with NSW Electoral Commission, nor request any changes to be made to the decision date.

 

President of the Shires Association, Cr Ray Donald said this deferment was essential to enable councils to go through the proper procurement and decision making process.

 

"Despite a positive meeting with Premier O'Farrell and the Minister for Local Government, Don Page MP on 19 September 2011, the Premier has let councils down by taking such a long time to ultimately provide us with such an unworkable and disappointing response," said Cr Donald.

 

"The existing circumstances have not allowed councils to operate on a level playing field when deciding who conducts their elections. The NSW Government should have enabled councils to take the necessary time to make an informed and supported decision."