Suspended councillor writes to ARC administrator

"The Armidale Community has been rocked by bad news about local jobs," the local businesswoman and suspended Armidale Regional Councillor announced on Tuesday.

"Big W's exit from Armidale and UNE's mass reduction in staff is a wakeup call for our community - representing hundreds of jobs lost, and millions being stripped from the local economy and local businesses fortnightly."

While she says big business can't be trusted, the owner of Boobooks said there is still hope for our community.

"This week I have written to the ARC temporary administrator, Viv May, suggesting he take immediate action against the current job crisis plaguing our regional community," Ms O'Brien said.

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A letter penned by Ms O'Brien requests Mr May call an extraordinary meeting of Council.

"I'm seeking reports on Council's response to COVID-19, current workforce, and the potential job growth opportunities of shovel ready projects," Ms O'Brien said.

"At this meeting, I'd also like to see the creation of an economic recovery task force, or committee of Council, mandated to develop a comprehensive plan to stimulate the Armidale regional economy and create local jobs.

"If we want to see our local economy thrive, we need proper planning and proper investment that empowers local small and medium-sized businesses."

The ARC focus must be on stimulating the local economy and creating jobs Ms O'Brien said.

"If Mr May isn't prepared to take this on board, I will be making it my mission that this issue is represented," Ms O'Brien said.

Ms O'Brien also noted that the three-month temporary suspension of councillors was expected to expire soon.