The New South Wales Government has decided to postpone the local government elections that were scheduled for September this year, in response to the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
A new date has not yet been set, but the NSW Government intends to hold the elections in September 2021.
Hornsby Shire Council has welcomed the decision, with Mayor Philip Ruddock saying it would have been impossible to hold an adequate election under present conditions.
“There are few things more important than elections in our democratic society and we need to make sure they can be done properly,” Mayor Ruddock said.
“Moving the election date will not have a significant impact on Hornsby Shire, as our term was one year short because of the complications surrounding local government reform.”
Meanwhile, Council has temporarily closed all non-essential services, in line with the advice of the state and federal governments.
The majority of Council’s staff are now working from home, wherever possible.
“Council is not immune to the disruption and inconvenience caused by this unprecedented scenario,” Mayor Ruddock said.
“We are working hard to keep essential services, such as waste collection, operating as normal.
“In the meantime, I urge everybody to visit Council’s website if they have a question because many services are available online.
“While you are there, make sure you visit the library website, where a number of fascinating resources will help you pass the hours of selfexclusion.
“This is going to be a very difficult time for all of us and we will need mutual support to get through it together.”
