Council has given 18 months' notice to cease its affiliation with Legatus, citing concerns over the group’s performance in recent years and a lack of alignment with Barunga West’s priorities.
In a thorough evaluation of Legatus' strategic plan and supporting documents, Council determined that the proposed priorities and objectives did not offer any tangible benefits for its ratepayers, whether directly or indirectly. During the past three years, Council believes there has been limited progress in addressing regional opportunities and challenges that serve the collective interests of Legatus' member councils.
Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope said it was the firm view of Council that the Legatus Group should primarily focus on advocacy, policy support, and development on matters of “regional importance”.
Furthermore, Council asserts that it is essential for Legatus to ensure its activities do not duplicate the functions of other organisations, such as the Local Government Association, state government agencies, councils, Regional Development Australia, landscape boards, and tourism boards.
“Regrettably, the Legatus model has fallen short in achieving these objectives, and Barunga West Council is not alone in this viewpoint,” Ms Wauchope said.
Mayor Rodney Reid, the Chairperson of Legatus, has been apprised of the concerns during an information session with councillors and through written correspondence. Barunga West Council maintains full confidence in Mayor Reid's ability to address these issues and initiate meaningful reforms within the regional subsidiary. If successful, Council will reconsider its membership.
During the next 18 months, Barunga West Council will remain an active and supportive member of Legatus, demonstrating its commitment to the region's collaboration and progress. However, should Legatus be unable to institute the necessary reforms, and should Council not rescind its decision to withdraw its membership, it will approach the relevant Minister in 2025 seeking approval to formally cease being a constituent council of Legatus.
“Barunga West Council is committed to safeguarding the interests of its ratepayers and ensuring effective regional governance,” Ms Wauchope said. “The decision to withdraw from Legatus membership reflects our dedication to pursuing avenues that will best serve the needs and aspirations of its community.”
The Legatus Group is one of six regional local government groups in the Central Local Government Region. The Legatus Group operates as a Section 43 Subsidiary of Council, charged with providing support and advocacy to local government councils in South Australia, in accordance with the structures established by the Local Government Association of South Australia (LGA).
Council has previously expressed concerns over the draft plans and budget presented by the Legatus Group. These concerns include an operating deficit of $73,300 in the 2022-23 budget, reliance on grant funding for many identified projects, and proposed increases in annual council membership contributions.
Council currently contributes $12,479 annually to support and maintain its membership with the Legatus Group.