Leeton Shire Council will develop a principles-based framework to guide consideration of potential asset divestments and efficiency options, following advice from its Financial Sustainability Advisory Committee (FSAC).
The framework will provide a structured, evidence-based process to assess whether assets or services remain aligned with Council's core business and long-term sustainability. The framework will ensure that community consultation will form part of the process before any divestment decisions are made.
Under the endorsed approach, Council will actively consider divestment of assets and reflect this in relevant policy documents where assets meet more than one of the following criteria: they are not core business; similar services are already delivered by others; they could be operated by not-for-profits, businesses or individuals at a similar or higher standard; and/or they are redundant or obsolete.
Mayor Cr George Weston thanked Prof Joseph Drew and FSAC members for their thoughtful input and expertise.
"The Committee has provided considered advice that will help Council plan responsibly for the future," Cr Weston said.
He emphasised that any future divestment decisions will not be based solely on financial factors.
"Council has community obligations and broader responsibilities too," he said.
"Any assessment must look at the full picture, including community benefit, economic impact and strategic alignment, not just the bottom line. Councillors will be closely involved in shaping the framework to ensure that balance is maintained."
Council will update the community as the framework is developed and consultation opportunities are identified.
