The Millicent RSL has again expressed fears about the future of its war memorial clubrooms following renewed debate on the location of the proposed new $5.5m Millicent council offices.
The preferred location of the former North Terrace netball courts was chosen almost a year ago and council has since allocated almost $300,000 for detailed costings based on architectural plans.
However, three councillors tried last week to have fresh plans drafted at an estimated cost of $30,000 to build the new office near the Millicent RSL war memorial clubrooms and main town drain.
The motion from Councillor Dean Burrow was supported by Crs Deb Agnew and Dale Price but defeated by the seven other councillors.
In response to the debate, Millicent RSL president Chris Mathias said his group was disappointed with the stance of the three councillors in the minority.
Mr Mathias pointed out the Millicent RSL membership numbered 28 and not the eight as claimed during the meeting.
He said the local RSL also provided support to well over 100 members of the veteran community.
“At a recent council meeting the issue of the new council building location was raised again, with yet again some councillors wanting to impinge on the Millicent RSL War Memorial Clubrooms building,” Mr Mathias said.
“Surely the community have spoken and the building and the institution it houses should be left alone.
“The RSL Millicent sub-branch will continue to work closely and harmoniously with the council administration, as we have always done, even when some elected councillors stir up the hornets.”
During debate, Crs Burrow, Agnew and Price sought fresh plans from the architect as they felt the new office should be closer to the Millicent CBD as well as the existing car parks, library and Millicent War Memorial Civic Arts Centre.
At the conclusion of the debate, Mayor Des Noll expressed an opinion.
“When we started this term, there was a lot of discussion about once we make a decision, even if some of us do not like it, we go with it,” Mayor Noll said.
“This was hammered home quite early.
“You have to fall in behind and go with it.
“Clearly that is not the case.
“It is demonstrated to me that this is not the case with this council.
“If you do not like the decision, we bring it back to the table some months later which I think is extremely disappointing.
“I do not see any team environment involved here.
“I see individualism coming out more and more.”
In response to the mayoral comments, Cr Price said it was appropriate for council to review past decisions.
