CEO sharpens his knife
Two council departments targeted for cost savings
TWO departments at the Gold Coast City Council are in the firing line for potential job losses as CEO Dale Dickson begins his quest for a new contract.
The Community Services and the Economic Development and Major Projects departments, which contain about a third of the council’s 3600 staff between them, are believed to be targets of the reform “road map” Mr Dickson has been asked to compile.
Both departments are already in the midst of a review.
On Tuesday, councillors unanimously voted to give Mr Dickson a new three-year deal – with the option of a fourth – if he can successfully map out council cost-saving measures by September 15.
The emphasis is expected to be on removing “old” jobs in favour of positions focused on technology.
“We are now heading towards a digital economy,” Cr Tate said.
The two departments are among the final sections of the council to be scrutinised in an ongoing review process.
The review of the Economic Development Department, overseen by Mr Dickson, is closest to finishing.
“The EDMP review is close to finalisation and forms part of a road map report to be presented to council next month,” Mr Dickson said. Cr Tate declined to say how many jobs would be cut or the money set to be saved.
“It’s about reshaping it – it’s not about budget,” he said.
“I am determined our budget increase remains at CPI or less and that’s the number one part.”
Savings are expected to go towards the cultural precinct, building and upgrading community halls and projects which the council delayed due to the Commonwealth Games.
Australian Workers’ Union acting secretary Steve Baker said the union wanted to ensure all full-time roles were replaced with another full-time worker when staff left.
“It’s clear that council’s plans for a rapidly growing Gold Coast as a future city don’t include secure jobs for the people who are building this vision,” Mr Baker said.