The WA Local Government Association has judged the City of Nedlands as the Best Local Government in Western Australia. Nedlands won the coveted ALCOA Leadership Award at the 2003 Local Government Best Practice Awards, announced on 6 November.
Awards were presented to Councils that displayed a high level of commitment to the intent of the Local Government Act, met all the best practice criteria and demonstrated continuous improvement strategies. Six Councils – Nedlands, Gosnells, Joondalup, Rockingham, Swan and Serpentine-Jarrahdale – received a Whole of Organisation Award, and proceeded to judging for the State’s top Council award. The judging panel included private industry and Local Government representatives.
Nedlands Chief Executive Officer, Shayne Silcox, said Council had been implementing best management practices for four years, producing a more efficient administration and better services for residents and ratepayers.
“To receive this Award is an indication of the commitment, enthusiasm and professionalism of our staff,” Shayne Silcox said. “The awards are a good benchmark to show we are on the right track in providing quality services in a cost effective manner.”
WA Local Government Association President, Councillor Clive Robartson said Nedlands was an excellent example of how performance management practices could be applied to meet community expectations.
“The City demonstrated that it is second to none in its clearly defined business processes and strategies,” Councillor Robartson said. “Ratepayers and residents can be extremely proud of their Council. Staff have committed themselves above and beyond the call of duty to serve their constituents.”
Nedlands is an excellent case study in best practice for other Local Governments. However, Shayne Silcox said there was still room for improvement.
“We are not going to stop here,” he said. “We understand the importance of continuous improvement and we have a commitment to our residents to keep improving the way that we provide services.”
