ALBURY Council has extended the tenure of its general manager Frank Zaknich at a time when other council chiefs are facing uncertain futures in their roles.
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Albury has been given the tick of approval to remain a standalone entity, but other councils in the area including Corowa and Urana have agreed to merge and face a shake-up of senior roles including general manager positions under a newlook structure.
Mr Zaknich joined Albury from Broken Hill Council in 2013 and has had his contract extended for a further three years to 2020.
He signed an initial four-year contract when appointed as the permanent replacement for Les Tomich, who had seven years in the role.
The council's latest annual report shows Mr Zaknich is paid $306,517 and the senior management team a combined $1,075,912.
Albury's role in local government reform could extend to a leading role in the establishment of a regional joint organisation which will provide a forum for councils and state government to deliver regional priorities in the areas of job creation, education, housing, roads and transport.
"Local government reform is both a challenge and an opportunity," Mr Zaknich said.
"We stand ready for whatever changes come our way in the knowledge that we have the scale, capacity and financial acumen to support and develop our growing community and continue to play a constructive local and regional leadership role."
"We’re a 'can do' council working for our growing community."
The NSW Government is expected to announce its final position on local government reform by the end of the year.
Other major achievements since Mr Zaknich joined Albury include returning the city's financial operating results to positive territory, the completion of Murray Art Museum Albury territory and the council being recognised as an “employer of choice” at the NSW Business Chamber awards.
"I've enjoyed living and working in Albury," he said.
