07-08-2024
In response to leaflets full of misinformation spread by the USU, the Upper Lachlan Shire Council CEO asks, where did the truth go?
Upper Lachlan Shire council has recorded operational deficits for the last 3 financial years and this is not a financially sustainable situation. The question ‘where did the money go’ a suggestion by USU that money has somehow disappeared is completely ridiculous. Local Government across NSW is experiencing significant cost pressures with many councils pursuing SRVs, reducing services and staff levels in order to maintain financial sustainability.
Upper Lachlan Shire Council has a small rate base and large geographical area adding to the cost pressures experienced by Council. For the last few years council has been reliant upon grants which do not cover operational costs, this along with rising costs has necessitated proposed structural changes and budget cuts. Council CEO also clarified that she has met directly with the USU four (4) times over the last two months alone to discuss Council’s financial status and structure reviews, revealing that the USU is fully aware that they are spreading false information to the community.
CEO Alex Waldron responded to claims that she had refused to answer questions stating; “The only issues I have chosen not to address are those that violate the code of conduct, breach staff confidentiality, or involve specific details of their employment. The USU is using vulnerable Upper Lachlan Shire Council staff, who have been coerced into industrial strike action by misinformation and flat out lies in order to stage their media circus.
The community are the ones that are being impacted by the USU action. They are the ones who still have full bins out in the street, they are the ones who cannot access the waste facilities or the Gunning service centre. Water and sewer disruptions may also occur and the community are the ones who suffer. Not the USU and their organisers who are based in Wollongong. I’m sure their bins are being emptied, their council services are running as planned and they are continuing to be paid by USU.”
Upper Lachlan Shire Council Mayor Pam Kensit and Deputy Mayor Mandy McDonald condemned the USUs actions. Mayor Kensit stated; “This is to the detriment of our hard-working rate payers who ask for little in return and I can’t respect that. As Councillor’s we fully stand by our CEO and council executive in their actions to ensure Upper Lachlan Shire Council remains financially sustainable and able to service our community into the future.”
Council will continue to engage with staff on the proposed structure and welcome constructive engagement with the USU, however their actions and blind rejection of all proposed changes will not be accepted as a reasonable solution.
The Upper Lachlan Shire Council staff and community deserve better.