The amount is in keeping with the projected 3.2 per cent rate increase proposed for shire residents and equates to $184 up on the 2007/08 figure of $5700.

Arts Out West had requested a contribution of 46 cents per head of population – making a financial contribution of $6,824.56. This would have represented a 19.7 per cent increase over the previous year’s contribution.

Council believes it doesn’t get value for its dollar from Arts Out West and this time every year becomes an issue when it comes to responding to the group’s request for increased funding.

This year to support their request for increased funding Arts out West provided a summary of major highlights and activities undertaken under the Regional Arts Programme during 2007.

An invitation was also extended to council to re-sign a Memorandum of Understanding to last until 2012.

The Memorandum of Understanding included a financial contribution for the 2008/09 financial year on the basis of 46 cents per head of population calculated at 14,836 providing a financial commitment of $6,824.56.

Parkes Shire Council is represented on the Board of Arts Out West by Cr Barbara Newton.

Last year council increased its contribution by 10 per cent, however, according to Mr Brian Matthews (councils Director of Corporate Services), Parkes Shire was still behind what other council’s offer.

At the most recent council meeting, Cr George Pratt again took the opportunity to pose the question - `are we getting