Funds enhance key Administrative services programs

Some of the most significant challenges posed by the amalgamation process have been faced by the Corporate Services Department and the District Service Centres that support essential, though often less visible, aspects of Toowoomba Regional Council operations.

Administrative Services portfolio spokesperson Cr Anne Glasheen said she was particularly pleased that the budget provided resources to ensure District Service Centres were able to maintain or improve pre-amalgamation service levels.

"The way staff in our district and Toowoomba offices have worked together to ensure continuity of service has been a credit to all.  Funds allocated to corporate services functions will ensure we are able to build on this success," she said.

Information technology underpins council's capacity to maintain and enhance service delivery into the future.

"Everything from borrowing a library book to registering a dog, from tracking water levels and building asset databases relies on information technology." Cr Glasheen said.

"Additional funding of $557,000 has been provided in this budget to improve data and telephone communications between centres.  Ongoing integration and rollout of critical financial, payroll and human resources software also will be given priority."

Cr Glasheen said council anticipated greater efficiencies and savings in coming years through a more structured use of its buying power.

 She said streamlining of procurement and tender processes would be an ongoing focus of the Procurement and Trade Services Branch.  This branch will oversee some $10m capital expenditure on fleet and plant replacement and $3.8m on fuel.

"Balancing the economic impact of buying locally with the opportunity to maximise savings for the ratepayer is a challenge Council recognises as an important opportunity and obligation," she said.
 
Cr Glasheen said council would continue to invest in providing a skilled workforce for the community.

“Council currently provides 42 traineeships, apprenticeships and school-based apprenticeships across the region in a range of occupations,” she said.

“These arrangements are an excellent example of council fulfilling its obligations as a major employer in the region. 
 
"Our staff members are our most important asset so the expansion of the Employee Assistance Scheme to assist the health and well-being of all staff in the new regional organisation will be an important initiative.”

Skill shortages have affected council much like many other industry groups.

Attracting and retaining quality staff in all areas has become increasingly difficult.

“An additional $200,000 has been allocated to advertising for vacant positions and a new appointment in the recruitment area will be made,” Cr Glasheen said.

 “Extra funds will cover costs associated with producing and distributing more residents’ newsletters and a wide variety of information and promotional brochures about the expanded region.”