Independent councillor Helen Stewart said affordability would be the key to her decision when a construction contract for the hub was due to be awarded.

The development application for the City Hub project went on public exhibition on Thursday with submissions invited until July 2.

Residents debate Shellharbour City Hub plan

The community and civic facility will be located at the corner of College and Cygnet avenues in the Shellharbour City Centre. The development includes a new administration centre, council chambers, city library and museum, civic square, auditorium, community meeting rooms and cafe.

The detailed plans can be viewed on the Shellharbour council's website in the "on public exhibition" section.

Cr Stewart said she had received mixed feedback regarding the hub, even from members of the Oak Flats Progress Society of which she is president.

"A lot of people are saying 'move forward' and 'you can't hold progress back' but others are concerned about the impact on the villages, the shopping areas as well as services," Cr Stewart said.

"I'm not telling people this is a wonderful proposal ... this is a big decision and before I make it, I need to see the dollars and cents, and what we can achieve from the sale of assets.

"The council will be lumbered with a huge loan ... I need to be sure the council can afford it."

While Cr Stewart's vote was key to the project passing key milestones in 2013, the fact Deputy Mayor and former Liberal councillor Paul Rankin now supports the concept means Cr Stewart's vote may no longer be as crucial.

However, Cr Stewart believed it was important the council took notice of public opinion, including the 8000-signature petition from the Stop the Hub community group.

The hub development application will be determined by the Joint Regional Planning Panel.