Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is “bitterly disappointed” for people in Sanctuary Point and the Bay and Basin area, following Shoalhaven City Council's announcement to scrap plans for the new Sanctuary Point District Library.
Mrs Phillips said $7.5 million Commonwealth funding was made available in the October 2022 Federal Budget and is still available for the construction of the Sanctuary Point Library up until the end of June 2027.
"Shoalhaven Council has stalled for more than four years on the project, changing designs and locations back and forth, and ultimately has been unable to build a library as originally promised within the timeline of the grant program,” she said.
“Council is now recommending forgoing the federal funding that I secured for this important community facility.
“It’s not good enough. People in Sanctuary Point deserve to have the new library they were promised.”
Mrs Phillips said council had been “shamefully sneaky” announcing their intention via a media release late on a Friday afternoon.
“But what's even worse is there is no mention of the $703,117.39 in Commonwealth funding council will receive to help with costs if they terminate the agreement. That funding could easily go towards the planning of the new Sanctuary Point Library", Mrs Phillips said.
"It beggars belief that a cash-strapped council would forego significant federal funding for a project that ratepayers will ultimately have to fork out more money in rates for.
"Years in planning, the new Sanctuary Point Library will bring many benefits to people of all ages and backgrounds in the fast-growing area. The modern, purpose-built space will bring the community together to study, read and connect.
"I implore Shoalhaven City Council to get on with the Sanctuary Point Library they promised, and not hand back the $7.5 million federal funding.
“I will continue to back the community and support the project should council come to me in the future with a fleshed-out plan that will enable them to deliver the library.”
PHOTO: Fiona Phillips has supported the community campaign for a new Sanctuary Point Library, delivering $7.5 million for its construction four years ago.
