OPTIONS for the 2016 councillor elections will be presented for determination at the Bega Valley Shire Council meeting this Wednesday.
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Before the 2012 elections took place, the council was advised of three options to administrate Local Government councillor elections, including engaging the NSW Electoral Commission (NSWEC), running the election internally with council staff, or contracting a third party.
The council can enter into a contract with the NSWEC, which coordinated the 2012 elections, at a cost of almost $197,000.
However, the estimated cost of such an action for the 2016 process would be around $205,000.
This is still the most inexpensive option of the three, with council estimates putting the costs of an internally run 2016 election close to $215,000, and engaging a third party such as the Australian Electoral Company around $307,000 without deductions.
The BVSC notes that while each option would require significant financial resources, coordinating the election internally would incur its own human resources as well.
It also stated using council staff would consume more human resources than outsourcing the election.
Also under discussion is a paid lifeguard initiative, proposed at Tathra Beach until the end of February with backing from the Tathra Chamber of Commerce.
Rob White from Tathra Beach House Apartments approached Mayor Michael Britten with the idea.
After discussions with the council it was suggested if local businesses could raise the funds needed to cover the extension of lifeguard services, the council could facilitate a contract variation with Australian Lifesaving Services, which provide the service.
The BVSC applauded the initiative, saying it was an example of the community working with council to deliver a benefit, and is waiting on confirmation of additional funding through the Southern Phones Mayor Grants.
Lifeguard services are currently provided across the shire at Camel Rock Beach, Horseshoe Bay, Tathra Beach, Short Point, Bar Beach, Main Beach Merimbula, Pambula Beach and Aslings Beach.
Wednesday’s council meeting starts at 2pm at the council chambers in Zingle Place, Bega, and is open to the public.