But the cost would mean it would forfeit any financial assistance from Uralla Shire Council until 2020.

Uralla Historical Society is seeking to repair the roof of the mill and chaff shed, a project which is estimated to cost $150,000.

It has applied for a grant from the NSW Heritage Office for half the cost of the project and sought the support of the Council to chip in a quarter of the funds. The society would contribute the remaining amount.

“In the event of a severe storm the fabric of the buildings and the treasures contained within could be irrevocably damaged,” historical society secretary Kaye Sutton wrote to Council.

The issue was discussed at Monday’s council meeting, where it was decided to commit up to $25,000  as part of its 2015-16 budget.

General manager Damien Connor suggested Council could pay the amount forward on the proviso the mill doesn’t “come for a handout until 2020”.

“This is the rhyme and reason – we have no shortage of excellent community organisations to fund,” he said.  

The councillors agreed, holding reservations about the ability to contribute $37,500 to the project.

Mr Connor told the councillors the impact would not be known as Council had no long-term financial plan.

He assured them it was an issue he was addressing.

A number of councillors had reservations about the amount, concerned it would impact on its ability to fund other community projects.

“$37,500 is a large figure,” Councillor Isabel Strutt said.

“It could mean we would need to cut spending somewhere else.”

Councillor Kevin Ward included a provision any money given by the Council would be reliant of McCrossin’s Mill being successful in obtaining the grant money from the government.