General News
26 July, 2024
Horsham slipping from bad to worse
Horsham Rural City Council CEO Sunil Bhalla and mayor Robyn Gulline last year pledged to lift their game after the JWS Research community satisfaction survey demonstrated unequivocally that 2022-23 had been a shocker.
Every indicator declined – from waste management to customer service, and from community consultation to value for money.
The survey noted rural residents and those aged 50-64 rated council performance lowest in nearly all service areas.
"Attention should be paid to these groups over the coming year," researchers said.
"Council direction has declined the most of all measures... reinforcing that the situation may get worse if not attended to proactively."
Cr Gulline candidly pointed to her own council chamber as the main source of dissatisfaction.
"Conflict between councillors is the main reason that people have told me they've marked us down," she said.
“It’s been a challenging year for council, and we acknowledge how these factors have played a part in impacting the community’s perception.
“We want to reassure residents we are working on becoming a more unified and accountable council.
“Our community’s voice matters."
Mr Bhalla said he was confident council could "turn things around", with a four-year plan and an annual action plan in place.
"Everyone is clear on where council's focus is for the next 12 months," he said in July last year.
This year's survey has seen council's overall performance slip again.