Local residents spent years reporting major compliance issues at Tomerong Quarry to council, issues which have the potential to cause health problems for residents (illegal importation of carcinogenic material).

But the quarry continued to break the rules for years without any ramifications, until recently, when it was issued with fines amounting to $114,000.

The community wanted to see justice served, to see those who were negligent in their duty take responsibility for their actions – or inaction.

And most importantly, they want the matter put to rest, so that it never happens again in the Shoalhaven.

There are many unanswered questions about council’s dealings with the Tomerong Quarry, and Mayor Amanda Findley had drawn out the terms of reference for an external investigation into the matter.

This would have provided closure for the Tomerong community.

But a majority of Shoalhaven Councillors voted against the investigation.

There will be no external investigation.

“Why would some councillors suddenly decide they do not want an independent inquiry which will provide transparency, reflection, clarity and progress forward?” Tomerong community forum representative Kate Child said.

“Seven years ago, the general manager implemented a change of culture within council. This was warmly received by the wider community. Part of this culture change was the implementation of a compliance team brought in by the then Mayor Gash, was also welcomed by the community as it was needed.

“This proposed external investigation is inline with this culture change and needed to identify significant issues and a resolution. Otherwise nothing changes, nothing is learnt.

“What is so offensive about an investigation that will provide transparency into council’s actions? Every council decision, action or non action is reviewable.

“No one or no decision is above scrutiny.”

Crs Patricia White and Joanna Gash were among councillors who changed their minds about the investigation.

They voted for the general manager to commission an external investigation at the May Strategy and Assets Committee meeting.

Once they had seen the terms of reference, instead, drawn up by the mayor, they retracted their support.

Cr Greg Watson was always against the investigation, condemning it as a “witch hunt.”

Crs Amanda Findley, Kaye Gartner, Nine Cheyne, John Levett and Annette Alldrick were the only councillors to vote for the investigation on Tuesday night.