Derwent Valley Council's finances back in surplus

The Derwent Valley Council is expected to be "back in the black" financially and approximately $1.23 million better off for this current financial year.
Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said that "after years of deficits, the Derwent Valley Council is now tracking strongly toward finishing the financial year in a surplus position".
It comes after the move and approval of budget cuts in March, after the newly appointed DVC CEO, Wes Young, completed a review.
"The audit panel has been concerned about the council’s financial sustainability and cash position and supports the proposed recommendations and actions to be taken," Mr Young previously said.
Action was then taken on this advice, with the cuts backed by the mayor and councillors Sara Lowe, Matt Hill and Wayne Shoobridge.

Cr Dracoulis said she was pleased with the turnaround.

"Improvements have come through disciplined decisions, tighter financial oversight, dedicated staff, and the appointment of executive leadership with the skills to strengthen Council’s finances and governance,” she said.
"Money we expected would have to be borrowed is now not needed.

"Projects are also progressing, and planning is underway with opportunities for tourism, investment, river activation and local growth actively being pursued.
"There’s still work to do, but we’re moving in a positive direction.”

Cr Dracoulus is also pushing for more information to be released about the council’s expressions of interest (EOI) process for outdoor events held on Council-owned land, including High Street.
"After putting forward a motion to ask for a release of information to the public in March, the motion has now been withdrawn," she said.

“I’ve since been advised that legal and contractual work is currently underway on the matter, and that public commentary while that process is ongoing would not assist.

"For that reason, I’ve withdrawn my motion for now, with the expectation that council will provide a public update when the time is right.”

Work is underway on an upcoming EOI process expected to be released soon.

“That process aims to make sure outdoor events continue on Council-owned land in a fair, clear and properly managed way,” Cr Dracoulis said.
"It’s also important to note that this is not a new approach.

“An EOI process has long been the normal mechanism for future activation of community-owned spaces, helping ensure fairness, transparency and opportunity for all.”