Acting executive manager of finance and information technology Jo-Anne Mackay answered councillors’ questions regarding Financial Assistance Grants, contributions to the Rural Fire Service and transfers between council’s various coffers.

Earlier this month council auditors presented their report on the shire’s financial management during the 2007-2008 financial year.

In 2009, Council returned a surplus of $2.119m, the first time a surplus has been returned since 2005.

Cash and Investments held by Council for 2009 amounted to $11.23m representing an increase of $2.767m over 2008.

Water Supply Operations recorded a surplus of $502,000.00 which offsets the deficit of $486,000.00 in 2008. Sewer recorded a surplus of $450,000.00 which adds to the surplus of $676,000.00 in 2008. Waste recorded a surplus of $65,000.00. Surplus amounts will be utilised in the future to upgrade and improve infrastructure.

Mayor John Cahill said the Shire still had a little distance to travel but that the recent auditor’s report showed an improved situation. He said council’s finance team, led by Steve Molloy, had very good control of council’s finances.

“We’re getting accurate monthly reports and the individual budget managers are encouraged to tow the line. If there is any over-expenditure we’re notified in time to correct it,” Cr Cahill said.