While Council amalgamations have enabled cost savings in service delivery a hidden drawback can still exist for residents in some rural Shires. With Councils now responsible to a more widely spread population, residents with a query or problem to resolve can find themselves needing to travel long distances, or alternatively incurring high telephone bills if they are outside the local call area of the Shire offices.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council in Victoria has addressed the problem by introducing a new ‘quick call’ 1300 telephone number for a range of Council business. Queries from anywhere in the Shire can now be made for the cost of a local call.
“Together with Council’s new presence on the Internet, this centralised telephone system aims to make business between Council, its residents and ratepayers and other clients simple, easy to access and efficient,” said Chief Executive Officer, Prue Mansfield.
Initially the new system will direct all incoming calls to a central switchboard at Kyneton, later callers will be able to dial directly to specific business area of local laws, planning, building and rates, as well as general enquiries. Council’s new web site offers an even broader range of accessibility and information for local residents and traders.
“The Internet offers enormous scope to advance the business and cultural profile of the Macedon Ranges Shire, as well as being a great tool to improve communication and access to Council on everyday matters,” Prue Mansfield said.
“As well as showcasing the entire range of this Council’s services, the Macedon Ranges home page joins forces with every local business and tourism enterprise in the Shire, all aimed at promoting and enhancing knowledge about the Macedon Ranges, its attractions and economic advantages.”
Information can be downloaded from the Internet to personal computers enabling people to print off everyday Council business forms such as planning and building applications as well as the latest programs of festivals and events.
There is also instant access to Council reports, the minutes of monthly meetings and information about new developments within the Shire to homes, libraries and schools throughout the Municipality.
The home page, which is constantly updated, is on line at all Council Service Centres, every visitor information centre in and around the Shire, as well as tourism focal points including Melbourne Airport.
Ultimately, people will be able to respond to the home page via email with such items as application forms or submissions on particular issues.
For further information contact Helen Grimaux, telephone (03) 5423 2360.
