Cr Pinson was prompted for a response by Cr Geoff Hawkins in a lively debate about her unsuccessful motion to freeze rates.

Cr Hawkins, in discussing what he described as the potential "calamitous" cost to the community of freezing rates, asked the mayor if she had discussed her proposal with Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams.

Read more: Frosty rates debate as councillors warn mayor of "calamitous" cost to the community

He went on to make the point that many of the high priority projects council delivers requires funding partnerships with both state and federal governments.

"Have you discussed this motion, in particular the rate freeze, with our local state member. If so what was the response?" Cr Hawkins asked the mayor.

The mayor told Cr Hawkins she was "offended" by the question.

"You know full well that the Member for Port Macquarie has refused me entry into her office to have discussions of any kind," Cr Pinson said during the meeting.

"Don't look surprised Cr Hawkins. I have not had any discussions with the Member for Port Macquarie.

"I haven't had any meaningful discussions with the Member for Port Macquarie in some months Cr Hawkins, of which you are very well aware of."

Cr Hawkins said anyone who supported the rates freeze motion put forward by the mayor needs to consider their fiduciary responsibilities under the Local Government Act.

The mayor called Cr Hawkins out and said if his aim was to "disparage" her as far as her fiduciary duty as a councillor was concerned, she would remind him of her affirmation of office and didn't need to be "lectured" on it.

CEO Dr Clare Allen stopped the debate and said it was important for councillors to take a moment to revisit the Code of Conduct for meeting practice which refers to conduct which imputes improper motives of any council official.

"I'm only raising this because I think we've deviated into making personal reflections. We are here in terms of reputation for our community and it's important that we follow that guide. It is fine to have your own personal reflections or opinions, but not against other councillors."

Cr Pinson and Mrs Williams would not elaborate further with both saying personal matters will not in any way impact on their professional duty to serve their community.

"I work with all levels of government - state, federal and not just our own local members but others as well," Cr Pinson said.

"I've done this since I have been elected and I am always happy to meet with Leslie."

The Member for Port Macquarie said she remains focused on helping deliver solutions on issues facing the community.

"I have never discussed my personal relationships with colleagues and I do not intend to start now," Mrs Williams said.

"The mayor has chosen to act in the contrary and so any further questions on this matter I'll leave with her to comment. It is critically important that all levels of government work together to support our communities.

"My electorate office has very effective and open lines of communication with council representatives including the CEO, directors and other councillors."

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