Its monthly meeting this week will debate a motion from Deputy Mayor Carol Sparks which says: “That Council supports a youth centre being established in the old Glen Innes Council Chambers and that Council commits to the operational and upkeep of the building”.

She and fellow councillor Dianne Newman (who seconds the motion) are keen that when the RFS vacates the building, probably later this year, it should be turned into a centre for young people.

But others on the council are opposed because the money hasn’t been allocated.  Mayor Steve Toms said: “The success that this council has achieved is by being disciplined in its financial and strategic management”.

And one of the officers of the council, Anna Watt, the director of corporate services, reports to the meeting: “I remind Council that it has not allocated any funds in the 2018/19 Operational Budget, nor in the 10 year Long Term Financial Plan, for the establishment and funding of a youth centre.”

But Carol Sparks believes the need for a special provision for youth is urgent.

As she puts it in the council document: “Most teenagers find it difficult enough dealing with the normal pressures of growing up, school expectations and simply forming relationships. Establishing a youth centre with Council supporting the process will send a positive message to the community that this Council is taking a step towards supporting the youth in our town and villages, by giving them a safe place to go.

“That place will not only be THEIR place to go, but it will also offer them choices to be part of programmes especially targeting their education, health and well being and personal interests dreams and aspirations.”

It’s not clear how the vote will go. A division now exists on the council with the mayor often in a 4:3 minority. On this reckoning, Cr Sparks’ motion would go through. But others often allied to her may worry about extra spending.

The council may be in something of a pickle. At its last meeting, a decision was made not to seek outside buyers for the building so it is stuck with it – but no alternative use once the RFS has gone has been found.

See also: Plea to turn fire HQ into a youth 'hub'