Ministerial permission for Wattle Range Council to quit the Limestone Coast Local Government Association has yet to be given.


The council decided to leave the organisation last year citing governance concerns but remains obligated to pay its annual 2024/25 subscription fee of $191,000.


Wattle Range Council has sought the endorsement of Local Government Minister Joe Szakacs for its withdrawal actions as required by law.


The minister has since written to LCLGA president and Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin and advised of his response.


“I asked the Office of Local Government for advice in relation to this matter,” wrote Minister Szakacs.


“I consider that, amongst other things, the views of the LCLGA on the proposed withdrawal are relevant to consideration of my approval for the Wattle Range Council to cease to be a constituent council of the LCLGA.


“Accordingly, I invite the LCLGA to provide comments to me on the Wattle Range Council’s proposed withdrawal, as well as any material it considers relevant regarding the same matter, at your earliest convenience.


“Until such time as I provide my approval, the Wattle Range Council continues to be a constituent council of the LCLGA.”


Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll and chief executive Ben Gower met with a senior advisor to Mr Szakacs in Adelaide last month.


Meanwhile, LCLGA interim executive officer Colin Byles made a confidential 50 minute presentation to the January monthly meeting of Wattle Range Council on Tuesday night.


A 29-page document entitled “Future proofing the LCLGA” was circulated privately to councillors and then also considered on a private basis.