The cost of a routine and relatively minor maintenance task in Millicent generated the most debate at the June monthly meeting of Wattle Range Council.
Engineering services director Peter Halton and five councillors spoke on the estimated $10,000 cost to upgrade a ramp at the entrance door at the Millicent Craft Group.
Mr Halton said the work would be done by council staff and the $10,000 estimate in the written report was not a contractors’ price.
Councillor John Drew said he regarded the $10,000 estimate as very high.
“The Millicent Lions Club could do it for $5000,” Cr Drew said.
“I hope the final figure is much lower.”
Cr Dennis Muhovics also baulked at the $10,000 estimate.
“It is a lot of money for a bit of concrete,” Cr Muhovics said.
“We need a detailed report from staff.
“It is dangerous and there has been quite a few falls in that area.
“Something has to be done.”
Cr Chris Brodie also said it was a safety issue.
“We have to grin and bear it,” Cr Brodie said.
Cr Emma Castine said she was shocked by the cost.
Cr Castine said a State Government grant for the work may be available as was the case at the CWA pemises in Penola.
Cr Dale Price queried the presence of a handrail in that area and was told there was one.
Cr Brodie moved a motion that council approves a budget variation of $10,000 to complete the remediation works to the ramp alongside the Millicent Craft Group building.
This was seconded by Deputy Mayor Cr Peter Dunnicliff and was carried.