Locals have laid floral tributes in front of the gates near the Cenotaph in Wellington in the wake of Tuesday's siege in Martin Place, and councillors paused to remember those affected at Wednesday's council meeting.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
At the same get together councillors ratified the first stages of the $1.6million CBD Beautification which is expected to begin in March.
The money for this is coming from the Cobbora Transition Fund.
Councillor Alison Conn was still concerned about the lack of zebra and level crossings in the main street and also the beautification plans which were going ahead despite the advice of the heritage advisor.
"How many parking spots will be lost," she asked.
Council's Technical Services director Stan Robb said 15 to 20 spots may be lost.
Cr Smith also said she was worried about bus stops which Councillor Conn also mentioned.
Councillors were told there was still room in the main street for buses to drop off and pick up.
Cr David Grant said many don't want the taxi rank moved to the other side of the street.
It is understood the council is seeking extra funds to put in a shelter near Coles.
Cr Grant said the lack of shade was a concern for many.
Fifteen submissions were received and responses would be made to these by council's Technical Services director Stan Robb said.
Wellington mayor Rod Buhr has indicated 2015 will be a defining year for the council.
A consultant will help guide the council's Fit For The Future submissions.
The mayor told councillors the submissions may have worrying implications for jobs in the area, especially at council.
"I have told the member for Dubbo Troy Grant the loss of jobs at the town's biggest employer would be catastrophic for Wellington," he said.
It comes at a time when 26 councils have asked for a special rate variation change.
The Wellington Caves and Rygate sports precinct will also have the first stages of work under way during the first half of next year, but after a scope of works is released which is expected to be worked on during January.
The NSW Planning Assessment Commission is expected to hand down its determination in January on the Dubbo Zirconia Mine which has employment prospects for Wellington, together with a proposed limestone quarry at Geurie.
The Bodangora Windfarm still hangs in the balance over Renewable Energy Target debate making for a big year ahead for the council.