If approved, the rate increase would have funded a number of community projects across Port Stephens, including rejuvenated town centres, many road and drainage upgrades, better sports facilities, more events, improved community amenities plus a number of new pathways and cycle ways over the next 10 plus years.

Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says this decision means that Council will have to seek for additional sources of funding to deliver the projects Port Stephens has already been waiting many years for.

“We will continue to apply for grants and advocating for State Government support to deliver projects we know are critical to Port Stephens residents and visitors.

“Many of the things that our community have been crying out for will have to wait to be completed.

“Our Capital Works plan will remain unchanged, which means we’ll still be delivering quality services and facilities our community expect. Unfortunately, some works will need to wait. For example, Mustons Road at Karuah, significant drainage improvements at Shoal Bay and the missing pathway link on Gan Gan Road won’t begin next year as we had hoped, but will be scheduled for around 2025 when we expect to have funds available.

“This decision is disappointing for many in the community who wanted to see a better and brighter future for Port Stephens,” Mayor Palmer said.

For more information about Council’s capital works projects, please visit www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/projects