There’s a pressing need to address safety issues at Dumaresq Dam, to upgrade [largely rural] unsealed roads, set aside funds for a much-needed new library and possibly for a performing arts centre.

So many projects and simply not enough ratepayers’ money, nor government grants, to go around. 

Which gives perspective to the New England Regional Arts Museum’s plan to extend repayment of its loan by another 10 years.

When originally scheduled in 2009, the lifeline of $454,000 thrown to the museum by Council was intended to be interest free.

A plan was hatched to sell artworks to service the debt and return to the black in 10 years.

But things haven’t gone according to plan and now the museum is asking for a 10-year extension of its loan, currently valued at $295,000.

The assumption is the extension will also be interest free which, as Council officers point out, will mean a write-off of $178,000.

That’s money that could go towards the new library, or upgrading an unsealed road, or put towards saving Dumaresq Dam.

Council must behave prudently in its discussions with the NERAM board and have in mind its list of other community projects, all in need of funding. 

We agree NERAM is a tremendous asset to the city and costing such a treasure is a hard task.

But commercial decisions must be made in the interests of all; why should the art museum be absolved of paying interest when there are other community projects going begging?

Let’s also not forget the role of ratepayers in the decision-making process. Earlier this year a bid by Council to raise rates by 20 per cent per annum for seven years drew ire. Less money equals some tough decisions.