Council to audit management

Gosford Council has decided to undertake a management structure audit.

Cr Lynne Bockholt said she was delighted with the decision, describing herself as protagonist of the proposal.

"This is the one of the most important and worthwhile things I have done since I have been on Council, she said.

"There is a widespread feeling among councillors that there needs to be a much stronger focus on customer service and outcomes."

Cr Bockholt said a change in culture was needed in some sections of the council.

"Much of this council culture is a holdover from the days when local government was closed to all public opinion and while some managers have done much to try and rid the organisation of these attitudes they still persist," she said.

The council will use a selective tender process to engage consultants, at an anticipated cost of between $50,000 and $100,000.

The audit will aim to improve customer focus and enable council services to be more responsive and better geared to satisfying community needs.

The council has approved a draft brief and tender document for the consultancy.

The draft tender says the appointee will examine the council's structure, customer service levels and operating systems.

The consultant is asked to examine internal control systems, policies and procedures, as well as procedures for appointment, authorisation and validation.

The outcome is expected to include a report on non-compliance with "existing or generally accepted" procedures.

The audit would "review the integrity, reliability and effectiveness of the existing system compared to other models employed by other large organisations, in particular the effectiveness of the current department structure".

The audit process would include interviewing councillors, all levels of staff and members of the community.

A survey of the community will also be undertaken.

Mark Snell, April 12