New group to keep close eye on council

A COUNCIL watchdog association is on the verge of being formed in Toowoomba.

More than 100 ratepayers have already signed up to fight for rights of residents. Organisers expect hundreds more to answer their call to arms later this month.

chris.calcino@thechronicle.com.au MOMENTUM is building behind a push for residents to unite and keep watch over Toowoomba Regional Council.

A first meeting aimed at establishing a ratepayers’ association drew more than 40 attendees yesterday.

Organiser Frank Ondrus expected its follow-up to attract concerned residents by the hundreds.

“I have more than 100 names already from people who want to be involved,” he said.

“We also have a number of different interest groups that are represented.

“Once we make the public call, I would expect our next public meeting to attract hundreds of people.”

A survey of the crowd revealed a wide cross-section of residents and a range of different issues driving their disdain for how the region’s post-amalgamation council operates.

Between concerns surrounding architectural heritage, transport and the environment, one issue was repeatedly raised — a perceived lack of due process and community consultation by the council.

“There has been such an upsurge right across the community about a range of issues,” Mr Ondrus said.

“We’re just adding them all to the list.”

The next public meeting will be held at St Luke’s Hall on the corner of Ruthven and Herries Sts.

A date is yet to be set.