Westland District Council is currently reporting an interim operating deficit for the month ending April 2025, driven in part by the timing of grant funding and project expenditure.
Chief Executive, Barbara Phillips says that while some of the deficit relates to government-funded projects where revenue is yet to be received, the scale and timing of the deficit were difficult to forecast.
“This is not our year-end position, but while the current monthly figures can appear concerning, and we are taking them seriously, as we know the ratepayers expect us to do so” says Ms Phillips. “A number of the projects involved are funded through grants that are paid in arrears or on milestone payments”
“We continue to review our internal systems to monitor and track the monthly and importantly the Year End financials, and to strengthen our ability to flag risks and respond in a more timely manner, regardless of the fluctations” says Ms Phillips.
“We are committed to financial transparency and accountability. We will ensure we have the right controls in place and can provide elected members and the public with timely and accurate information,” Ms Phillips says.
Council will continue to monitor the financial position closely and provide updates as part of regular reporting, with the audited year-end results to follow.