Council Comment

with Charlie Cox

So much more to Council

From its early days as basically concerned with the 3Rs - roads, rates and rubbish - your local Council, like every other in Australia, is now more aptly described as a "provider of human services". Such is the extent of what is now expected of us by our community.

Since our inception as Richmond Valley Council in January 2000, Council has been faced with many challenges in its efforts to become an efficient and effective service provider to its community.

In 2003 Council committed itself to reform - in response to government policy and in response to our perceived need to provide for a sustainable future for our Richmond Valley area and its people.

As well as successfully dealing with boundary adjustments, water management issues, resource sharing etc, our most significant and vital work has been done in organisational improvement. To provide for a sustainable future, it is necessary to plan years ahead.

We are doing this planning through review of all our programs and services. By systematically reviewing all we do and how we do it, we are setting a clear direction to take Richmond Valley into a challenging future.

Council has some 60 programs and services, 37 of which have either been reviewed or are under review thus far. The process continues.

Most people would recognise that review can underline the need for some things to change. And some people react strongly against any change. Change can ruffle our comfort blankets.

I put it to you that Richmond Valley Council is looking at the 'big picture' with a view to providing the best possible outcomes and services to promote a sustainable future for us all.

In future columns I intend to elaborate more on Council's individual programs and services reviews.

If you already own a scooter/gopher/trike or are thinking of getting one, Council will be conducting a special day for you on Tuesday, September 20. Come along and get good advice from police officers, occupational therapists, sales people and private owners on what best suits you and how to operate one of those increasingly popular freedom machines.

The day is absolutely free, courtesy of Richmond Valley Council, and a light lunch will be served. Phone Joanne Petrovic on 6660 0225 to reserve your place or to obtain further information.