REALITY CHECK: Organisational Values

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Every now and then it is a good idea to look at what is promised against what outcomes have been delivered. If the promise is published – and it is in Launceston even if somewhat buried within the website – that is as good a starting point as one might get. Imagine that an audit of the 'values' articulated below was undertaken point by point. Clearly, the reality would fall short of the promise – that is almost a given and something to be expected.

However, we are approaching 'audit time' – the 2011 Local Govt. elections – and it is timely that an audit is done now – even if you do keep the results to yourself. The very fact that elections are held as frequently as they are reflects a 'civic strategic intention' that we, ratepayers and residents, do an audit at an election. However we need to remember that when we do we our audits there is a difference between the elected Aldermen and Council's Officers.

The Aldermen are accountable to their constituency and the Officers are accountable to the Aldermen – well that's the theory. Albeit that 'accountability' is rarely tested, it needs to be more often than it has been. Interestingly, when things like 'Organisational Values' those who write them down open themselves up to what is too often regarded as unwelcomed scrutiny.

It is probably time that Council initiated a public consultation process that is aimed at measuring outcomes against performance. Before the election would be good but after the election woulds be good too.

The 'VALUES' are written in stone and a beginning has been made on surveying ratepayers and residents in regard to their perceptions of Council's delivery on promise. Thus far the results are not all that complimentary.

PLEASE READ THE VALUES AND FORM AN OPINION

LCC: Organisational values

Integrity

• We behave ethically
• We tell the truth
• We keep our commitments
• We meet both the spirit and intent of the law.

Stewardship

• We care about people and the community in which we live
• We operate safely
• We are environmentally responsible
• We strengthen the community.

Inclusion

• We value diversity and respect the dignity of each person
• We value differences in people and perspectives
• We build relationships based on mutual trust
• We recognise the contributions of every individual.

Initiative

• We lead the way
• We have the courage and creativity to shape the future
• We have the discipline to manage risk
• We act decisively in a timely manner.

Teamwork

• We work together to achieve superior results
• We share ideas and talents to develop solutions
• We support and rely on each other
• We value clear and open communication.

Accountability

• We take responsibility for our actions
• We live our values
• We set clear goals, measure results and seek to improve
• We build and protect the Launceston brand and reputation.