Deputy Mayor, Jane Smith, has taken a swipe at NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian on social media, over recent comments made by the Premier.
Visiting the Coast on September 30 to announce $2M in funding for an upgrade of Central Coast Conservatorium, Berejiklian commented on Central Coast Council’s “inactivity” over key projects in the Gosford CBD, including the much-anticipated Regional Performing Arts Centre.
“I was pleased to have the Premier and cabinet visit the Central Coast, but disappointed with her comments regarding Council, ” Clr Smith said.
“I have a high regard for the Premier and welcome her comments that the NSW Government is willing to work with Council but I note her comment that Council needs to be more responsive. “As former Mayor, in the last six months I submitted at least three or four requests for a meeting with (Member for Terrigal) Adam Crouch.
“On each occasion he indicated he was unavailable to meet. “In June I organised a Leadership Forum. “Mr Crouch was the only State MP who was unable to attend or send a representative. “I recently requested a meeting with the Premier to discuss regional growth, economic development, transport and education on the Central Coast.
“Two weeks ago the Premier’s office indicated that she was unable to meet. “Central Coast is the third largest Council in NSW and the sixth largest in Australia.
“I encourage the Premier to show strong leadership and appoint a Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, somebody who can work across politics and across all levels of government to collaborate and work together to deliver the infrastructure and services our growing community needs. ”
Source: Social media post, Oct 2 Deputy Mayor, Jane Smith