An urgent motion was again put forward by Councillor Patricia White at the meeting, to ensure that in the event of a severe weather forecast, preparations to open the lake can be made preemptively.

Around 60 residents with placards filled the public gallery, angry over the Mayor Amanda Findley and Shoalhaven City Council's handling of the Lake Conjola entrance.

It was a lengthy and complex meeting with, at times, councillors unsure of what they were debating.

The Woollamia Boat Launching Ramp Updated Masterplan was deferred after it was changed again by council staff.

Council also agreed to give the CEO broad discretion to waive all water and sewerage account charges for those who had been 'fire impacted', although there was confusion over how many properties 'fire impacted' would include.

At one point it was suggested the move could cost ratepayers over $1.2 million.

More in-depth coverage to come.