Two councillors from the City of Greater Geraldton have had discussions with the Shire of Chapman Valley regarding changing the boundaries of the City of Greater Geraldton, so the Mullewa Ward would become part of the Shire of Chapman Valley.
Cr Tahlea Thomas and Cr Jennifer Critch, who run their own independent facebook group called 'Mullewa Councillors', approached the Shire of Chapman Valley without discussing the matter at any formal council meeting, according to CGG Mayor Shane Van Styn.
“I need to make it perfectly clear that council have not considered this matter,” Mayor Van Styn said.
“Two council members have independently taken part in discussions with the Shire of Chapman Valley without consultation or consent from Council.
“It has not been formally discussed at any official Council meetings or forums.”
The Shire of Mullewa amalgamated with the City of Geraldton Greenough on 1 July 2011 to form the City of Greater Geraldton.
The community in Mullewa at the time was overwhelmingly against the amalgamation, with 83.24% of Mullewa voters voting against the merger.
Chapman Valley Shire President, Councillor John Collingwood, said "Chapman Valley has been approached by the Elected Members representing the Mullewa Ward in the City of Greater Geraldton enquiring into our interest in opening dialogue with the City on possible boundary changes.
"Chapman Valley is not committing to anything at all other than to listen to what the City has to say.
"Any proposed boundary changes need to go through a rigorous and detailed analysis to ensure any new entities are financially sustainable and meets the demographic and community interest requirements of the legislated condition for proposed boundary changes."
Mayor Van Styn said "We are happy to look at any proposal but we will need to consider all issues to determine if it is in the best interests of our community.”
