THE Two Cities, One Community concept is facing its first test of strength with Wodonga Council being left out in the cold on the first step of re-igniting a push for a regional indoor aquatic facility.
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Albury Council last night agreed to create a cross-border aquatics facilities advisory group with Albury councillor representation, but without Wodonga councillors, who have to date resisted moves to work together on delivering an all year round indoor pool.
"It is lamentable and strange to me how a democratically elected group of people think they can't talk to the very people who elected them," he said.
"But it shouldn't affect the way we do business and it is for Wodonga to come to their senses and participate in this committee in the future.
"Restructuring our process because of recalcitrance on the part of Wodonga is not good governance."
Cr Cameron said the twin cities needed a regionally significant indoor pool complex, but Albury can't do it without the support of Wodonga and state and federal governments.
Cr Henk van de Ven backed Cr Cameron.
"I would encourage Wodonga to have a re-think about its participation," he said.
"It is critical to have the input from Wodonga councillors about their desires to have an indoor aquatic facility in the region."
Wodonga already has an indoor 25m pool facility.
The decision was made with Ovens and Murray Aquatics Action Group members including Stuart Baker and Phil Evans in the gallery.
The model incorporates a sliding fee structure based on the number of swimming and water polo participants who take out memberships of the pools.
Acting director Simona Coad said pool users were "relatively comfortable" with the arrangements which could be implemented on July 1 this year.
"They are committed to finding a resolution that will be to the benefit of all swimmers," she said.
Mr Baker said the detail within the deal remained critical.
"The actual concept of the licence model is something we can live with," he said.
"But we won't be doing anything to jeopardise any swimming and water polo club or association.
"It is all about the detail."
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