Council Meeting
I RESPOND to the Mayor of George Town Bridget Archer (The Examiner, October 3) who states my assertions regarding some matters pertaining to the George Town Council are simply untrue yet rebuts none of the substance.
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Making no criticism of staff I highlighted the different approach to cost savings between two neighbouring councils.
Dorset has found internal efficiencies including senior managerial rationalisation as opposed to George Town increasing overall staff numbers after losing water and sewerage.
Reportable senior managerial personnel have been increased by the General Manager John Martin from two to five positions and he has flagged rate rises.
All this has come at a cost to ratepayers with the State Audit Office reporting that the George Town Council has the highest average salaries in the state, for example $8800 compared to $7600 (The Examiner, September 5).
A major street recently reconstructed has completely broken down yet the mayor talks of expenditure on matters clearly of state responsibility such as health and economic development.
Weasel words re preparing strategic plans and acknowledging that some staff go the extra yard does not answer why a council administration like some of their counterparts in the south of the state are treating elected members and ratepayers who dare to question with disdain.
The George Town municipality with its natural attributes friendly people and affordability is attracting new residents who appreciate what we have to offer but our full potential cannot be reached with an extravagant top heavy council.
John Austin, President George Town Residents and Ratepayers Ass Inc.
Public Servants
NOW we all know how to save money.
Send a large crowd of overpaid Canberra public servants, business class, to stay in an upmarket hotel in Paris.
Once there, attend a meeting telling you how you should really save money.
Oh, to be one of that lucky bunch and see the City of Love on the taxpayers account.