Mayor's allowance set at $113,280

The Central Coast mayor will receive $113,280, the deputy mayor $37,383 and councillors $28,950 this coming year.

Justifying the allowances, mayor Cr Jane Smith said the decision was based on a determination of the NSW Local Government Remuneration Tribunal and was consistent with the resolutions of other Councils of a similar size including Blacktown, Canterbury-Bankstown and Northern Beaches Councils.

She said the fees were a matter of public interest and that further expenses suggested for the mayor and councillors would be deferred for further consideration and review by staff and Councillors.

"We are all pleased and honoured to have been elected to serve the people of the Central Coast," Cr Smith said.

"The fees have been set to reflect the high demands placed on us in the execution of our civic duty and the fact that I will be a full-time mayor serving the needs of the community every day," she said.

"Additional expenses have been suggested to help fulfil mayoral duties as the head of what is now a major regional council, with a diverse and growing population.

"I want the public to have confidence their elected officials are claiming reasonable expenses directly related to their role in the service of the community."

Additional expenses being considered include a prestige vehicle for the mayor to undertake civic duties and business class travel when representing the council at state and national forums will be considered.

Councillor travel expenses will also be subject to further review.

SOURCE:

Media release, 10 Oct 2017

Jane Smith, Central Coast Council