Upper Hunter councillor proposes voluntary merger with Muswellbrook to address debt, infrastructure costs, and economic reliance on mining.

Upper Hunter Shire councillor Troy Stolz has proposed merging his council with Muswellbrook Shire to tackle a $24.6 million debt, rising infrastructure costs, and economic reliance on mining in Muswellbrook. The potential merger aims to cut administrative expenses, boost bargaining power with the state, and promote economic diversification. Stolz plans to formally initiate talks, noting shared geography, services, and values. While acknowledging past resistance to forced amalgamations, he stresses the process would be voluntary and aimed at dialogue. Muswellbrook has not opposed the idea and would consider a formal proposal, but emphasized that any final decision rests with the NSW Government and would require evidence, community input, and proven benefits.