In the final meeting before the September 10 election, general manager Ann Prendergast acknowledged the councillors’ efforts and contributions, but also the many challenges they presented.

“It has been probably one of the most challenging times in my history in local government management but I have to say, we learned a lot,” she said.

Despite the sometimes turbulent nature of the council, an end of term report endorsed at the meeting highlighted significant achievements from 2012 to 2016.

“If you leave everything else aside and look at the end of term report, there is no doubt achievements have been made by this council for which I’m sure the community is grateful and will benefit into the future,” Ms Prendergast said.

Most notable was council’s work to remain standalone and be declared Fit for the Future under State Government reforms, including a special rate variation (SRV) to fund infrastructure renewal and maintenance.

The SRV, approved by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), means rates will increase by 45.3 per cent over the next four years.

The construction of Moss Vale War Memorial Aquatic Centre and sale of council-owned lands to reduce debt on the facility was highlighted by several councillors, as was an increased focus on tourism, arts and culture and youth strategies.

Departing Councillors Jim Clark and Juliet Arkwright were thanked for their service. Both addressed the chamber to reflect on their experiences, and offered advice to all 2016 election candidates. Councillor John Uliana, who did not attend the term’s final meeting, was thanked and in his absence.

As the meeting came to a close, councillors joked about joining hands and finishing in song. While all sung the praises of council’s achievements over the past four years, it was clear even as they were leaving that they still weren’t sold on each other.