Parramatta Council has revised its funding to the Eels rugby club to $1.1m over three years, down from the original $2.4m, following public backlash over the use of ratepayers’ funds.
The three-year strategic partnership was agreed in a confidential session in December, but was followed by a motion to rescind lodged by Cr Kellie Darley who told the Sydney Morning Herald the deal was pushed through as a late report without sufficient time for debate or to make an informed decision.
An extraordinary meeting was held on Monday night to consider the rescission motion, with opposition to the plan coming from four councillors and the United Services Union.
The Daily Telegraph reports this morning that the funds will be used for scholarships for western Sydney women, children’s clinics and school holiday camps, and player appearances at events.
The council logo will also appear on the NRLW team’s jersey.
In a public forum before last night’s decision, some residents including former Parramatta Lord Mayor Phil Russo argued the funds could be better spent on community infrastructure and services.