ALL fingers are pointing to Port Stephens Council following the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) hearing on Friday, with renewed calls for an investigation.
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The Tomaree Ratepayers and Residents Association (TRRA) has been calling for an ICAC investigation into the council since the 2012 local government election.
Port Stephens Mayor Bruce MacKenzie contributed to the campaigns of several other candidates in the election, calling into question their independent status.
On Friday, Port MP Craig Baumann joined the state Liberal Party casualty list following revelations of hidden developer campaign contributions from developers Jeff McCloy and Hilton Grugeon, who were both behind the proposed Wallalong housing development.
During his time on the stand the Buildev residential subdivision at Boundary Road, Medowie, also got a mention.
An email from Mr Baumann in 2008 to Buildev director Darren Williams talks of the likelihood of the development being approved.
It says federal Liberal member for Paterson Bob Baldwin would "firm her up", talking about councillor Sally Dover, to see the Buildev development approved.
"This all goes back to when Craig Baumann was a councillor as well and it makes us question the council's relationship with Buildev," Dick Appleby from the TRRA said.
"It is good to see it getting an airing, because people don't know just how widespread this is. Port Stephens needs to be investigated properly."
Despite the criticism, Cr Bruce MacKenzie was unrepentant, saying "Let them come . The TRRA need to get a real life and do something decent for the community."
The Examiner asked Port Stephens Council general manager Wayne Wallis if he would be open to an ICAC investigation.
He sent us this response.
"The ICAC is the definitive body to be examining any allegations that have been made against Port Stephens Council or its councillors," it said.
"Council will comply with any direction received from the ICAC, as it has always done in the past."
Cr MacKenzie has been vocal in his support of former Newcastle lord mayor Jeff McCloy and also the Wallalong development, but when asked if any money had been offered to him he said "never, ever. I'm just a little fish".
He also backed fellow councillor Sally Dover, saying she was one of the "most honest and hard-working" people.
The Voice of Wallalong and Woodville also wants an ICAC investigation into the council.
