EDITORIAL
After four tumultuous years, Central Coast Council Administrator Rik Hart is preparing to step down, leaving behind a legacy marked by both accomplishment and controversy.
Hart has played a key role in stabilising the Council, first as interim General Manager/CEO and later as Administrator.
Throughout this period, Coast Community News (CCN) has provided extensive and detailed coverage of every critical decision and development, making it the community’s go-to source for understanding this complex journey.
Hart has been mostly open to media scrutiny, a refreshing change from the attitude of some previously elected officials who were often less willing to engage with public questioning.
This transparency has allowed for more comprehensive reporting by local outlets like CCN, which has consistently documented both the triumphs and challenges of his tenure.
The extensive archives of CCN articles offer a thorough record of Hart’s actions and the impact they’ve had on the community.
Hart has introduced some innovative reforms in affordable housing by implementing land lease projects in partnership with community housing corporations.
Under his stewardship, the Council’s finances have been repaired after years of poor management oversight by past councillors and executives.
However, this recovery came at a steep cost to residents.
Large increases in rates, fees and charges have been implemented, alongside controversial asset sales and reductions in infrastructure and services.
Many in the community feel these decisions have left a sour taste, as the financial burden fell squarely on their shoulders, resulting in poorer representation and fewer services.
It is also worth noting that Hart has, to some extent, been left holding the bag for the poorly executed amalgamation of the former Gosford and Wyong Councils.
What was once promised as a cost-saving measure for ratepayers instead led to spiralling fees and diminished local governance.
The state governments of both major parties have effectively left Hart with the unenviable task of cleaning up the mess, turning him into something of a fall guy for their failures.
As the region prepares for new elections and the return of elected representation, it’s clear that Hart’s tenure, while stabilising, will leave a complex legacy.
David Abrahams – Managing Editor
Well done Rick Hart, you did a fantastic job getting council back on track 🙏🙏
I have watched your work with amazement!
Only one criticism, I want the new council to care for what’s left of our natural environment and national parks. These are what makes our shire beautiful and looking after the native animals is what makes us different and significant!
Thankyou Rik, as the current Administrator, you have left the Central Coast Council in a much better condition than when you first took on the job. The State Government (on both sides) made a shambles of the amalgamation process, and you with the help of some dedicated staff were left to get the Council back to working more efficiently. While we have left the Central Coast and are living in Queensland, we still have property on the Coast so have an interest in how the Council is performing. Best wishes, Ross