Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll has explained that his council has decided to quit the Limestone Coast Local Government Association because it believes the peak body was no longer the cohesive and focussed organisation and had “lost its way”.


The decision to quit the LCLGA was made by all eight councillors during a lengthy confidential portion of the August 13 monthly meeting.


They had considered a 50-page confidential report on the issue


Councillors Richard Cassidy, John Shelton and Chris Brodie had submitted apologies for non-attendance.


Two days later, Mayor Noll issued an embargoed press release announcing the withdrawal but gave no reason for his council’s actions.


However, on the same day, he wrote to LCLGA president and Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin and explained his council’s decision.


His letter was tabled at the August monthly meeting of the Kingston District Council.


According to Mayor Noll, Wattle Range Council had been an active, collegiate and proud member of the LCLGA for many decades.


Mayor Noll said his council appreciated the importance of a strong, united and collaborative local government voice for the region.


“It is therefore with mixed feelings that I write to advise you that this council has formally resolved to withdraw our membership from the LCLGA in accordance with clause 6.5 of the Association’s Charter,” Mayor Noll said.


“The decision was made in confidence at our ordinary meeting on August 13 and was reached via a unanimous vote after a lengthy and considered debate.”


The letter stated it was Wattle Range Council’s view the LCLGA had lost its way in recent years and had “struggled to define its purpose” and “appropriately govern its core business”.


“We note that we shared our concerns with you a number of months ago, however we have not received a response to those concerns nor seen any evidence of improvement,” Mayor Noll said.


“We genuinely hope the withdrawal of our membership may be seen as a catalyst for change.


“We welcome the opportunity to participate in any reformative discussions the LCLGA board may wish to consider in the future and remain open to re-joining the association if and when the right opportunity presents itself.


“It is vitally important that we continue to provide and advocate for key infrastructure and services across our wonderful region with a united voice.


“We want to cultivate and strengthen intergovernmental relationships closest to our respective communities.”


Mr Noll said Wattle Range Council retained its “strong desire” to collaborate with all regional councils collectively and individually through a range of other formal and informal networks.


His letter concluded by stating his council’s willingness to work with all levels of government.


The LCLGA constitution requires Wattle Range Council to pay its full 2024/25 membership fee of $191,000.