Maitland residents have been on the receiving end of some positive financial news on two fronts in the past week.
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Councillors were told at last Tuesday’s fortnightly meeting that there was about $23,000 in unspent funds allocated to this year’s Hunter Valley Steamfest (pictured) – which was a huge success in April, attracting 55,000 over two days.
The elected representatives also got news that the city had saved a significant amount of money – including $70,000 in savings on the cost of new bulk fuels – in the first quarter of 2017. This continued the trend from the final quarter of 2016, which produced similar results.
Cr Robert Aitchison was right to point out that council staff had thought “outside the box” to help make this result a reality.
Using drones to get a glimpse of hard-to-reach places to check on maintenance needs, using more energy-efficient means of light and power, and rationalising equipment like backhoes and excavators have helped council come out in front.
Cr Aitchison said the fuel savings council was making – $70,000 in the most recent quarter – were “huge”.
“Diesel fuel is essential for the efficient operations of council’s plant and machinery,” he said.
“It is vital to have a reliable, accessible source to enable operations – both in good times and during times of emergency.”
News like this is reason for residents and business owners in the Maitland local government area to be happy.
It shows that council’s efforts to be fiscally smart and responsible are paying off – literally. And the fact that the money saved on this year’s Steamfest will be funneled into paying for improvements for the festival’s rally ground is another bonus.
It means Steamfest will have better infrastructure that will only enhance the experience of punters as well as the reputation of Maitland for hosting top class community events.
Councils receive their fair share of criticism when applying for rate rises. Maitland City Council experienced this before the introduction of its seven year annual rate rise.
But council’s commitment when selling this to the ratepayers was that it would continue to improve services and it would make every effort to find savings. It appears council is putting its money where its mouth is, and doing just that.
