The Alliance, which consists of Wellington Blayney and Cabonne Councils and Central Tablelands Water, has been involved in the research and development of shared services as an alternate delivery model since 2011.
It has been a strong advocate of this model during the recent review into local government in NSW.
"Shared services provide a cost effective way of sharing service delivery that is a viable option to wholesale amalgamation," Alliance Chairman Scott Ferguson said.
Cr Ferguson, who is the Blayney Mayor, said the Alliance had demonstrated the benefits of sharing and collaboration over the past 10 years.
"A formalisation of the Alliance into a legal entity to deliver services means we could more easily engage in activities of mutual benefit to member councils, such as joint tendering and procurement and the sharing of staff and services," he said.
Using the expertise of KPMG, the Alliance is working to agree on the model and services to be offered by a new entity.
This has been supported by the NSW Division of Local Government which has recognised the leadership role theses councils are taking in this area.
"Shared services in a formalised way is not common in local government in NSW, but the Independent Local Government Review Panel acknowledged the value of this collaboration and sharing," said WBC Executive Manager Donna Galvin, who is managing the project.
"It is envisaged a number of shared services activities could be handled by one or more member councils becoming centres of excellence for the region."
The first two phases of this project will be completed by the end of March at which time councils can consider in more detail the benefits of implementing the new model.
Anyone seeking further information on the shared services model can call Ms Galvin on 0419 611 204 or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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Quelle/Source: Blayney Chronicle, 30.01.2014
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