The Bathurst Regional Council has approved a funding allocation of $300,000 for engaging external consultants to explore options for achieving financial sustainability. This decision was reached during the council’s ordinary meeting on February 18, 2026, following a detailed report from General Manager David Sherley that outlined the council’s current financial challenges and potential pathways forward.
Sherley’s comprehensive 25-page report emphasized that the council has reached a “critical point” in its financial planning. The funds will aid in the development of a Financial Sustainability Strategy: Beyond 2026, which seeks to address systemic challenges within the council’s financial structure.
During the meeting, Councillor Tony Gullifer proposed deferring the decision, arguing that the substantial amount warranted further scrutiny regarding the scope of the expenditure. His call for more information echoed the sentiments of several other councillors, including Sophie Wright, who expressed that it would be “financially responsible” to delay the decision until more data from the March quarter could be reviewed.
Wright stated, “It says let the March quarter numbers land, confirm that this capacity genuinely exists, then make a decision with confidence.” However, Sherley countered this argument, urging the council to move forward based on consistent financial advice provided by senior staff since 2013. He remarked, “You asked me and the senior team to come to you with proposals. The moment we come to proposals, there are continual reasons to delay and defer.”
The proposal to defer the decision was ultimately rejected in a narrow 5-4 vote, allowing the council to proceed with the funding allocation. Wright then introduced an amendment to the motion that included the funding but established strict guidelines to ensure transparency throughout the process. This amendment aimed to guarantee that the expenditure of public funds would be properly governed and that councillors would remain informed at every stage.
Wright clarified that her amendment did not intend to obstruct the council’s engagement of external expertise. “This amendment does not seek to block the work… What it does seek to do is ensure that, if council is going to spend $300,000 of public money, that expenditure is governed properly,” she stated.
Despite concerns raised about the level of oversight implied by Wright’s amendment, particularly from Councillor Jac Underwood, who labelled it as “micromanagement,” the council ultimately supported the motion. Underwood, while initially opposing the amendment, sided with the majority, leading to only Councillors Nick Packham and Elaine West voting against it.
The council’s resolution includes a requirement that prior to issuing any procurement documents, the scope of works for the consultancy must be provided to councillors. Furthermore, the council will receive monthly updates on the consultancy’s progress and expenditures against the approved budget. A final report on the Financial Sustainability Strategy: Beyond 2026 will also be presented to the council for further consideration.
This decision marks a significant step for the Bathurst Regional Council as it seeks external expertise to navigate its financial future effectively.
