Draft Operational Plan cops some criticism

“So, we might have expected higher performance targets in this updated operational plan.

“Instead, targets are being reduced.

“Last year’s plan and delivery program set a target mean of 70 days to determine development applications.

“This year’s plan adds an extra 10 days to that target despite the Administrator promising a ‘big improvement’ after hiring 19 new people (staff and contractors).”

Brooks said roads should be a priority, but Council has reduced “even last year’s woeful target” on kilometres of road to be resurfaced.

“There’s also a reduction in kilometres of new drainage infrastructure,” he said.

“Not one of the 12 water and sewer targets on page 56 have been set higher than last year’s plan – drafted before water rates went up supposedly to fund improvements.”

Brooks also criticised a reduction in public health inspections and in completing maintenance on parks and reserves.

“A number of targets from last year’s plan have disappeared altogether –including more than 20 on disability and access, for example,” he said.

“This is what happens when you get taxation without representation.

“This plan is further evidence that the underlying causes of the financial crisis –management calibre, organisational culture, inefficiency and low productivity – have still not been addressed.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said some of the previously proposed measures were unrealistic in terms of being achieved.

“We need to continue building trust within the organisation,” he said.

“The financial performance of the organisation has turned around and Council’s steadfast financial management has increased our financial stability.

“This draft Operational Plan shows a continued focus on delivery of services to the community through prudent expenditure and incorporates the necessary adjustments to accommodate the increased depreciation trend and rising costs due to inflation.

“This is not a Central Coast Council problem but a challenge facing all councils in the current economic climate, and notably the limitations placed on councils to increase revenue.

“The draft Operational Plan shows our community that we are making sure our roads, open spaces, water and sewer assets and leisure and waste facilities are repaired and renewed.

Rik Hart talks about the operational plan to CCN.

“At the March 28 meeting, I amended the resolution to include a table identifying percentage changes in proposed Fees and Charges for 2023-24, compared to the same fee in 2022-23.