As part of the 2001/2002 Budget preparation, a community consultation workshop was held to ascertain residents’ expectations of Council. From this feedback, Council prepared a new Corporate Plan based on Key Result Areas (KRAs) that reflected these expectations. A specific Key Result Area is ‘to improve service delivery and capability’.However, the poor condition of Council’s mechanical sweeper was making it difficult to sweep the high levels of silt that are deposited on Council’s roads. This was adversely affecting Council’s service delivery performance objective.
This year, the NT Department of Transport and Works employed a contractor to clean the underground stormwater drainage system using high pressure jetting equipment. To maintain the drains clear of silt and future blockages, it is necessary for Council to implement an increased level of street sweeping to avoid such material entering stormwater drains. This was unachievable due to the poor reliability of Council’s current sweeper.
As a result, quotations were sought for the purchase of a second hand road sweeper. Companies approached were advised of the operating requirements for Tennant Creek conditions, sweeper size, capacity and a budget of approximately $100,000.
The Mobil Topgun Low Dump Sweeper provided the best option when considering the purchase price, condition and the low usage. This sweeper is the current model on the market and spare parts are readily available. Previously used by a Perth Council, it has been supplied following a complete overhaul.
Council was successful in obtaining a special purpose grant enabling it to purchase the Mobil Topgun Low Dump Sweeper. The new sweeper, delivered in August, has greatly assisted Council to meet its aim of improved service delivery.
Results to date include the improved appearance of roads, streets and laneways, reduction in litter, the smoother operation of the underground stormwater drainage system and reduction of litter inside entry pits.
