Councils

Wednesday, June 03

SA Power Networks to refund millions 'overcharged' for street lighting

The Australian Energy Regulator says SA Power Networks has overcharged councils and the State Government for street lighting and will have to repay $13m – but the energy firm says the decision overturned previous pricing rules and set a “disturbing precedent” for business.

Councils ordered to mark citizenship on Australia Day

Local councils will be forced to hold citizenship ceremonies on January 26 under new federal government rules.

Deputy Premier Vickie Chapman. Photo: David Mariuz / AAP

Deputy Premier weighs in on council boundaries

Deputy Premier Vickie Chapman says it’s “eminently appropriate” for her to survey residents in her safe eastern suburbs seat about shifting the boundaries of the local council area, despite neither council affected currently backing such a move.

Councils to raise rates and stink over Budget bin tax

Outraged Adelaide councils say they will tell residents to blame the Marshall Government for rates being raised by up to an additional 1 per cent just to cover the “stealth attack” hike to the solid waste levy announced in yesterday’s State Budget.

The real problem with local government? We just don't care

Despite the political heat about rate-capping and evidence of mismanagement by local councils in South Australia, very few people pay any attention to the lowest rung of government. And that’s a big problem.

Local council bosses now cost $15 million a year

South Australian council CEOs enjoyed another above-inflation pay rise this year, new figures show – with the LGA defending the inclusion of Qantas Club and gym memberships in the executives’ packages.

Councils 'paralysed' by codes of conduct

Codes of conduct are causing local councils to become “paralysed”, says Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Bruce Lander.