2016-17 Leeton Shire Council Annual Report adopted

22 Nov 2017 9:51 PM -

Council adopted its Annual Report for the 2016-17 Financial Year at its November Ordinary Council meeting.

Council’s Director Corporate and Community Craig Bennett stated in his report to Council that Council is required to lodge an Annual Report with the Minister for Local Government by 30 November each year. 

General Manager Jackie Kruger said that in many ways the 2016/17 year was focused on fresh starts for Council as a business.

“A new Council was elected in September and sworn into office in October 2016, bringing in four new councillors to join the five who were returned by the community. The mix is an excellent combination of experience and rejuvenation which makes for a strong governing body over the next three years.”

A new era for renewable energy commenced during the year as well with the launch of the 99kw solar farm at the Leeton Sewer Treatment Plant which has substantially reduced operating costs.

Through its advocacy Council also successfully influenced government to include Vance Estate in the roll out of NBN services - a most pleasing result for local business and industry.

Mayor Cr Paul Maytom said that several important meetings were held with our local, state and federal members to verse them up on Leeton's contribution economically and what support is needed to enable Leeton Shire to improve and grow.

“Council let these key players know that workforce, housing, energy costs and freight efficiencies will be crucial to our ongoing success. We know they have listened and heard us- Council's next focus will be on getting active support and greater investment delivered across the Shire over the next 12 months.”

Mayor Maytom further added that from extensive community consultation undertaken during the year, it has also became very clear that residents and ratepayers are looking for a refurbished pool and regional swimming centre, an enhanced CBD, a revitalised Roxy Theatre, and reinvigorated towns and villages within the Shire.

“Planning for these 'refreshes' was a strong focus in 16/17 which will put the Shire in a good position to leverage grant funding and do detailed design in this current financial year.”

To view a copy of the 2016-17 Annual Report please click here

The Audit Office of NSW issued an unmodified audit opinion with Ms Danielle Mackenzie from Crowe Horwath in Albury presenting the Auditors Reports for the 2016/17 financial year at the start of the November Ordinary Council meeting informing Council that it was in a sound financial position due to adhering to good financial management practices.