Chamber concerned at sewer backlog

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has commented on "an ever-increasing backlog" of infrastructure projects at Gosford Council, following a recent decision to seek State funding.

However, council staff have denied the backlog was the result of losses suffered as a result of overseas investments.

"The business community is increasingly conscious of the number of infrastructure projects that require urgent attention including the water and sewer projects, roadworks and community facilities all of which are core activities of the Council," said Peninsula Chamber president Mr Matthew Wales.

"We note that as at 30 June 2012, the Council's Annual Financial Statements indicate that Council has a backlog of some $40.5 million capital works to bring sewerage infrastructure to a satisfactory standard notwithstanding all the other demands on the budget.

"Whilst we endorse Council's application to the NSW Division of Local Government for sewerage funding under the Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme Round Two, we remain concerned that Council's limited budget and tight cash reserves makes it continually dependent on government grants and subsidies to provide basic services," said Mr Wales.

"We all know times are difficult, but the Council's budget is no different to any household budget.

"You have to continually look at your expenditure and decide what is discretionary and what is essential.

"The Chamber would encourage Council to ensure that a greater proportion of the budget is directed to Council's core services including roads, drainage, footpaths and community facilities and that non-core activities be deferred until the infrastructure backlog is reduced."

A statement to the December 4 meeting of Gosford Council disclosed the "backlog".

Council staff have since denied that the backlog in sewerage projects was the result of financial losses suffered as a result of investment in Lehman CDOs.

Water and Sewer directorate communication officer Mr Nathan Slade said: "What this statement means is that Council currently estimates it would cost $40.5 million to complete all current identified works required to upgrade ageing sewer infrastructure - pump stations, treatment plants, sewer mains etc."

Media Release, 19 Dec 2012

Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce