Published on Friday, 5 January 2018 at 12:00:00 AM
Substantial cost reductions, organisational restructuring and innovation, have been highlighted as catalysts for transformative change and success at the Town of Port Hedland’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday.
Presenting the Town’s 2016/17 financial results, Mayor Camilo Blanco outlined the speed of the Town’s improved efficiencies and financial positon against the backdrop of major economic and population challenges:
“It’s been an extremely difficult time for both the town and the community,” said Mayor Blanco. “We’ve had to make some really tough decisions in order to put the Town’s financial path back on track and unlock Port Hedland’s unique potential.
“Over the past 2016/17 financial year, we’ve addressed the major economic and population challenges, adopted stringent financial measures and tackled the significant social issues facing our community.
“Major cost-cutting and focusing on renewing our ageing assets and not living beyond our means, has been central to our approach. It’s all about getting back to core essential services, listening to the community and delivering improved outcomes.
Mayor Blanco outlined that over $4 million in cost-reductions had been achieved for the period, along with a further $500,000 in operational contractor and consultant costs:
“The positive results for the period have been achieved in a very small amount of time and strongly positions us to for sustained growth and future prosperity.”
2016/17 Annual Report Highlights include:
- $4 million reduction in operational costs and new CEO and Executive Team
- 30% increase in police numbers – working with the State Government
- Increased focus on education and job opportunities
- Re-opening of Marapikurrinya Park - $520,000
- Installation of new Digital Scoreboards – Kevin Scott and Colin Matteson Ovals
- Town became first in Pilbara to be recognised as ‘Small Business Friendly
- Established the Hedland Bush Fire Brigade (BFG) to improve emergency services
- Upgraded South Hedland Landfill weighbridge
- Issued #23.1 million of development approvals in 73 applications
- Spent $35,000 upgrading fencing along Cooke Point foreshore protecting the dunes
- $500,000 technical upgrade of the Matt Dann Theatre
“Results like this don’t just happen. It takes a lot of hard work, new ways of thinking and a proactive approach,” said Mayor Blanco.
“I would like to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of everyone involved.
“Particularly, I would like to thank CEO David Pentz and Directors Gerard Sherlock and Rob Leeds, who have worked tirelessly to strategically reposition the organisation to achieve the best possible outcomes for both community and commercial benefit.
“Thank you also to all of our Councillors past and present, employees and the broader community, who have contributed during the period.
“Our motto is all about getting stuff done. As the buoyancy of the Town starts to pick-up again, we need to be a step ahead, proactive and ready to embrace the opportunities.”
Further details on the 2018 Town of Port Hedland AGM and Annual Report, can be found at www.porthedland.wa.gov.au
Back to All News