Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Local Government Paul Toole announced the decision Cabinet has made to reform local government across the state last Thursday.
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The three-way merger was the preferred option of Boorowa residents, who voiced their support for combined Boorowa, Young and Harden Council at the last public inquiry meeting.
As a result of proclamations made by the Government the three former Councils cease to exist effective as of 12 May 2016 with the new Hilltops Council commencing operation at the same time.
Member for Goulburn Pru Goward said the creation of the new, stronger Hilltops Council will deliver improved services and better representation for local communities.
"The creation of this new council will enhance opportunities for growth and investment across the region and ensure that the communities of the Hilltops region are a true force into the future," Ms Goward said.
Ms Goward said that in addition to the ongoing financial benefits generated by streamlining administration and reducing red tape, the $15 million provided by the NSW Government from the Stronger Communities Fund could lead to significant investment in new infrastructure projects across the region.
"The communities of Hilltops Council will have direct input into what projects will be delivered under this fund and I will be working with my colleague, the Member for Cootamundra, to consult with our local communities to identify their needs, and make sure they are firmly communicated to the new council," Ms Goward said.
Included in the proclamation was the naming of Wendy Tuckerman as the Administrator of the new Council, Anthony McMahon as the interim General Manager and David Aber as an interim Deputy General Manager.
"At this early stage we are still obtaining information on the merger process from the Government, with a workshop scheduled over the coming weekend in Sydney to further clarify the situation," Mr McMahon said.
The timing of the announcements on mergers by the Government has taken place earlier than anticipated with the Government previously stating announcements would be made in the middle of the year. "I have been in contact with Wendy and as a consequence of the announcement she is cutting short an overseas holiday to be back for the weekends workshops" said Mr McMahon.
Mr Toole said it will be business as usual for the residents of the new Hilltops Council.
"Your library is still open when you need it and your bins still go out on the same night they always have," Mr Toole said.
"Following a recommendation by the delegate to proceed with the new council, I have decided to create Hilltops Council by merging the former Boorowa, Harden and Young councils."
Mr Toole said councillors committed to ensuring the success of the new council will play an important role in the new Hilltops Council.
"Wendy is a respected figure in the broader community who brings experience and knowledge of delivering for regional communities to her new role," Mr Toole said.
"The new Hilltops Council will maintain service provision across the new council boundaries, with a strong focus on service delivery for the surrounding villages.
"Stronger councils mean a stronger voice to advocate on behalf of local communities, particularly in regional NSW."
