Recommendation: That the general manager be requested to report to council in March 2020 and detail the approximate costs, process and proposed wording of such poll, asking whether council should be adding fluoride to the water supply, or otherwise.

At tonight's council meeting Mayor Peta Pinson moved a motion for a poll on water fluoridation to run in conjunction with the September 2020 election.

The poll would enable the community to indicate whether they would like council to continue to add fluoride to the water supply or otherwise.

Result: Councillors voted and were split evenly for those in favour and those against. The Mayor used her casting vote and the motion was carried.

Recommendation: It's recommended a move from level 4 to level 3 water restrictions should only occur once the Total Combined Storage (TCS) of local dams increases above 48 per cent.

Recent rainfall and above average rainfall for the start of February 2020 has improved the region's immediate water security situation.

It has resulted in a TCS increase from 37.9 per cent to 41 per cent after seven days of river extraction.

Cr Pinson moved a motion to push for a change from level 4 water restrictions to level 3 from Sunday, March 1 for residents and commercial users. After discussion, the motion went to a vote and Cr Pinson and Cr Griffiths were in favour, while all other councillors were against the motion.

Cr Turner moved a motion to support the original staff recommendation, which he said was based on research and feedback.

He added a point to the recommendation to increase the frequency and scope of communication with the community, to heighten awareness and transparency around water usage.

Result: Cr Pinson and Cr Griffiths voted against. All other councillors in favour of the recommendation that a move from level 4 to level 3 water restrictions should only occur once the Total Combined Storage (TCS) of local dams increases above 48 per cent.

Recommendation: Council request the General Manager advise whether the Department of Industry Crown Lands has advised council as to the Crown's position regarding the construction of new ocean tidal pools and the information required for consideration of landowner's consent, as per council's resolution from May 2018.

During the election campaign for the marginal seat of Cowper, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a re-elected Coalition government would commit $4.5 million dollars to a tidal pool in Port Macquarie.

The $4.5 million grant was promised despite Port Macquarie-Hastings councillors voting to place on the record that a tidal pool is not a priority for council in May 2018.

Result: All councillors voted in favour of the recommendation.

Full stories on these issues will be published on the Port Macquarie News website.

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.

If you value local journalism, continue to support us and consider taking out a subscription. CLICK HERE for a 30-day free trial.