Councillors last week set the annual fee to be paid to the mayor, deputy mayor, and councillors, based on a determination of the NSW Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.

Councillors will be paid $28,950 a year with the deputy mayor to receive $37,383. 

A spokesperson for the council said the remuneration recommendation was consistent with the resolutions of other councils of a similar size, including Blacktown, Canterbury-Bankstown and Northern Beaches councils. 

Cr Smith said the fees were a matter of public interest.

She said a decision on further expenses suggested for the mayor and councillors would be deferred for further consideration and review by staff and councillors.

“The fees have been set to reflect the high demands placed on us in the execution of our civic duty and the fact that I will be a fulltime mayor serving the needs of the community every day,” Cr Smith said.

“Additional expenses have been suggested to help fulfil mayoral duties as the head of what is now a major regional council, with a diverse and growing population. 

“I want the public to have confidence their elected officials are claiming reasonable expenses directly related to their role in the service of the community.”     

Additional expenses being considered include a prestige vehicle for the mayor to undertake civic duties and business-class travel when representing the council at state and national forums. 

Councillor travel expenses will also be subject to further review.