The suggestion arose from a ratepayers’ protest meeting attended by about 80 people in the TAFE grounds on Saturday afternoon.

Cessnock resident and United Services Union northern branch manager Stephen Hughes, who was asked by organisers to address the meeting, called council’s current situation “uncceptable”.

He said the relationships between council’s senior management and councillors have never been worse.

“Treating councillors with contempt is treating ratepayers with contempt,” Mr. Hughes said.

Mr. Hughes called for a vote of no confidence in general manager Lea Rosser and Mayor Alison Davey that was supported by the majority of the crowd.

“It’s not about sacking the council; it’s about making sure your councillors are listened to,” he said.

Deputy mayor Cordelia Burcham spoke about the “bizarre situation” council finds itself in with the Cessnock City Council vs. Cessnock City councillors court proceedings.

”It is my view that this whole event has been a monumental waste of your money and council’s time, all to protect one person’s employment and self-interest,” Cr. Burcham said.

Mr. Hughes urged voters to ask candidates for the September 8 election what they will do about council’s management.

The general manager will also be asked to address the rally on September 3, at the council chambers at 9am.

QUESTIONS FROM THE CROWD