Councillor Matt Brown has voiced his concern over the proposed $4.5 million Minnamurra Boardwalk and Cycleway.
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Cr Brown said the 1.6 kilometre project could cost Kiama Council up to $200,000 each year, which would include depreciation and maintenance.
“Most people could imagine a $4.5 million asset made predominantly of wood is going to cost a fair bit in maintenance – these things are never simple or easy,” he said.
“My major concern is we haven't budgeted for it.”
Cr Brown said the money would have to be pulled from other projects.
“Our budget is not robust it is tight. On the one hand the government says you must be fit for the future and economically responsible, on the other hand they say have this gift and we won't worry how you are going to budget for it,” he said.
“My suggestion is that the government asks the very basic question – can you afford this facility?
“This is nothing short of reckless, irresponsible and rude.
“I am not opposed to Kiama getting big grants like this, however I am opposed to the lack of process and inconsistency.”
Kiama MP Gareth Ward defended the NSW government’s decision to support the project.
“If Councillor Brown thought all those things, he shouldn't have voted for the grant application,” he said.
“Perhaps Cr Brown thought my chances of securing the funding was similar to his success rate when he was the local member, fortunately my batting average is a lot higher than his.
“If Cr Brown feels this way about these type of applications I would encourage him to stay awake and not fall asleep when he’s voting – he didn’t even ask these questions when it was being discussed.”
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