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Thursday, October 24, 2019
Whyalla is embarking on a strategic new economic development initiative that will continue the city’s exciting transformation.
City of Whyalla elected members have voted to not renew Council’s Regional Development Australia Whyalla and Eyre Peninsula (RDAWEP) membership and divert those funds into a Whyalla-focused economic development strategy.
The annual fee normally paid to the RDAWEP will be used to set up a Whyalla economic development service to pursue direct business and investment opportunities for Whyalla. Council paid $184,101.50 for membership to the RDAWEP in 2018-19 financial year.
City of Whyalla CEO Chris Cowley said Council appreciated its working relationship with the RDAWEP but the time was now right to use these Whyalla-ratepayer funds to invest in further exciting projects and opportunities that will directly benefit the city and its residents.
“Council, in partnership with our residents and businesses, has embarked upon an amazing transformation of our city and wants to keep that ball rolling,” Mr Cowley said.
“This initiative, and this enhanced focus on our city, will go a long way to delivering even more projects, jobs, training opportunities and economic development that will benefit our residents and community.
“Council will use a portion of the money (previously paid to the RDAWEP) to create additional job opportunities in Whyalla in the area of economic development.
“Another portion of the money will become working capital to support economic development projects.”
The unanimous decision to withdraw from the RDAWEP was made by elected members at Monday night’s ordinary Council meeting. Whyalla Mayor Clare McLaughlin, who is an executive council member of the RDAWEP, declared a conflict of interest and was not present for any discussions or decision-making by Council.