Hilltops Council’s website now includes a schedule of road works currently being undertaken. This information aims to increase communication on road maintenance works that Council is undertaking. Whilst road maintenance grading is scheduled in advance, it is often necessary to alter the program due to unforeseen circumstances such as extreme weather events. The schedule will be updated on a weekly basis to reflect required changes. The recent wet season has meant that maintenance of the road network remains one of council’s greatest challenges and this schedule will enable the community to be more consistently informed and have a greater understanding of the enormity of the task to be undertaken.
I attended meetings in Sydney last week with the Department of Premier and Cabinet, other Administrators and General Managers to discuss strategies and implementation processes and issues such as strong organisational health and key aspects from past mergers. It is quite clear that the success of the new Council will depend on a positive and service focussed organisational culture that builds successful partnerships and has the leadership, people and capabilities to deliver the results the community desires.
I also met with the Minister and discussed the Implementation Plan and transition costs projected to highlight some of the challenging issues our merger has presented, especially surrounding the integration of technology. At this stage the Minister is considering my requests.
Consultation with staff has commenced regarding salary and organisational structure. The Deputy General Manager David Aber will be finishing with Council on November 25. David has served the Council well and provided great leadership, experience and knowledge during the transition period, particularly to the former Young Shire Council during his time as General Manager.
