The beneficial enterprise management, which was adopted in principle at the council meeting on Wednesday, April 21, would see an independent body appointed to undertake management of council's activities within the Port.
While the body would oversee the running of activities, it would be held fully accountable to the council.
Mayor Chrissy Weller said after undertaking extensive research, the approach was considered the best.
“Council owns and or is responsible for a number of significant enterprises within the Port of Echuca, so we must ensure that the management of these operations is both efficient and effective,” Cr Weller said.
“We believe that a beneficial enterprise management model will provide best value for the community while also facilitating and supporting local business growth and tourism opportunities into the long-term future.
“While the modelling addresses a number of scenarios, the report indicates a community benefit (economic return) of $3 for every $1 that council spends in the Port.”
The in-principle proposal passed unanimously at Wednesday night's meeting, with Cr Paul Jarman absent from the vote due to a conflict of interest.
Members of council were quick to speak in support of the idea.
“The Port precinct is a public asset and that must be respected,” Cr Tony Marwood said in moving the recommendation.
“Paramount going forward is the implementation of a strong, overarching governance model to ensure this is done correctly.”
Cr Rob Amos agreed.
“I believe the community want the management of the Port done by an independent, professional board,” he said.
“The management structure would provide day-to-day management of the Port within the bridge-to-bridge precinct, as well as driving a plan for the future.”
The Cloudstreet Economics economic assessment of council’s tourism-related activities in the Port will be available on Campasoe Shire's website after the removal of any commercial in-confidence information.
Council will now commission targeted market research to help identify gaps and potential duplication in relation to tourism offerings/services within the Port precinct, while considering operations as part of a broader Bridge to Bridge precinct, to ensure a more holistic approach to the consideration of its Port operations.
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