The State Opposition has proposed a mediator meet with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council in a bid to resolve what Mayor Peta Pinson has described as "toxic dysfunction" among councillors.
The suggestion by Greg Warren, Labor NSW's spokesman for local government, came nearly a week after the Mayor's failed attempt at council's last meeting to call an early election.
In the days following the meeting, the council's general manager, Craig Swift-McNair, announced he would resign after accepting a job in Sydney.
Councillor Justin Levido also announced his resignation, reportedly citing work reasons.
A spokesman for the Minister for Local Government said the Office of Local Government (OLG) was monitoring the council's situation.
He said the State Government had been finalising the date for next year's council elections in consultation with the NSW Electoral Commissioner.
Mr Warren said he was glad the OLG had kept an eye on the council, but he hoped the department would act if needed to ensure the council's focus remained on its community.
A discussion between the elected body and a government mediator could help, he said.
"I think that would be a good, sensible first step.
"It would provide the OLG with the opportunity to get a greater understanding as to the issues that are clearly very serious around the Port Macquarie-Hastings."
The Deputy Mayor, Lisa Intemann, said a mediator could serve as the "circuit-breaker" needed to resolve the council's problems.
She said the departures Mr Swift-McNair and Cr Levido were a significant loss.
"I am very disappointed to lose from the council both the general manager and Cr Levido — a double blow in the one week."
