I was unaware of the real financial circumstances of council. My assumption that all was well was buoyed by the publicised million-dollar upgrade of Rouse Street as well as the recent job advertisements for administration staff.

I am sure most casual observers would agree that these activities suggested council was healthy and viable.

My objection is that the proposed rate rise should be a last resort and, not a first option as council proposes. A 40 per cent rate rise over four years is a burden that some ratepayers will find difficult at best and crippling for others, in particular, pensioners and those on fixed incomes.

I am also concerned that it is becoming increasingly common practise at all levels of government to simply increase their charges (rates/tax etc) to balance budget overruns.

Government departments must rely less on simply charging more for their services and initially, concentrate on auditing their own operating efficiencies and protocols.

The auditing I speak of will require the appointment of a specialised business efficiency organisation that will give a completely unbiased and fearless report with recommendations that will address management protocols, executive processes as well as outside and contracted staff.

The appointment of an administrator from the NSW Local Government Department will also report, but a bureaucrat auditing other bureaucrats has its downside which I am sure you will appreciate.

I have experienced three council amalgamations in my life and none have provided better or cheaper services. On the contrary. Services have decreased and staff levels exceeded the combined staff levels prior to amalgamation.

There appears to be no example of “efficiencies of scale” being a valid reason to amalgamate.

So I suggest to ratepayers here not to expect a new "golden age" if amalgamation occurs here.

The recently amalgamated Stanthorpe Council, from first-hand reports I have heard, are damning. Ask any Stanthorpe ratepayer.