DEAR News Of The Area,

IN recent months over 4000 homes have been rejected by Council to be built over 20 years in Port Stephens.

Mayor Palmer raised this when addressing the social issue of homelessness.

He seemed to imply the development rejection was the cause of the issue now faced by members of our community.

The long term housing he was talking about was rejected by the majority of Councillors because it was flood prone.

Affordable housing is definitely an issue.

Lack of forward planning is definitely an issue but linking the rejected developments caused Councillor Kafer to react and rightly so in the recent Council meeting.

Mayor Palmer stood up, demanding Kafer apologise.

It was all a little confusing but can be viewed on the webcast, simply move forward to 2:33.08 at https://portstephens.webcastcloud.com/Play?pId=2ee80309-a5ad-4159-91cf-cc52d04df3ce

Palmer clearly lacks knowledge that those living in their cars, in tents on the streets need emergency accommodation.

I don’t think Palmer wants to see Tomaree Lodge opened to accommodate women and children living in cars.

He did give $10,000 of his Mayoral funds in his last term to see the Lodge move forward as part of a tourism hub.

We need leaders willing to change course if needed, lead with compassion and understanding. We need leaders willing to call a plumber and get the Lodge open NOW!

Regards,
Kelly HAMMOND.