A MOTION calling on Mount Gambier City Council to lobby Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt to include the city in the $20m drug and alcohol services funding has been rejected by Mayor Lynette Martin.
Ms Martin ruled out an attempt by councillor Kate Amoroso to write to the minister, saying the Limestone Coast Local Government Association (LCLGA) had already resolved to contact the minister at last week’s meeting.
In speaking to her motion without notice, Cr Amoroso told the chamber services in Mount Gambier were “locked out” of applying.
Cr Amoroso expressed fears community members struggling with alcohol and drug misuse would miss out on receiving the right treatment in the right place at the right time.
While acknowledging Cr Amoroso’s concerns, Ms Martin said she would not accept the motion.
Cr Sonya Mezinic asked whether council could provide additional support given the Drug Action Team was working in Mount Gambier.
“Would it hurt or not to also to a letter from the city?” she said.
In response, council city growth general manager Judy Nagy said Member for Barker Tony Pasin had already received “significant displeasure” from the local community on the issue.
However, Ms Nagy said she was aware moves were afoot to find a solution, but did not elaborate further.
“It seems as if this issue is being addressed on multiple fronts,” she said.
Cr Paul Jenner said council had offered additional support to motions moved at LCLGA meetings in the past.
