Residents are invited to have their say on the development of Council’s 2023-2024 Budget.
Mayor Ruth Gstrein encouraged residents to have their say as Council set priorities for the coming financial year.
“This is an opportunity for residents to tell Council what is important to them and what services need to be prioritised,” Cr Gstrein said.
“This is the first step in preparing a huge and comprehensive roadmap that will get the best results for our community and value for ratepayers’ money.
“There will be more community consultation next year to finetune the draft Budget.
“The aim is to make sure resources are shared fairly and equitably while still delivering the high level of services our community deserves.
“We will need to find the right balance between meeting the community’s needs and remaining financially sustainable when costs are up because of high inflation, supply chain challenges, and skills shortage, while income is constrained by rate capping.”
Cr Gstrein said Council was also seeking input into the 10-year Financial Plan.
“This document helps guide Council’s long-term approach to allocating resources and managing budgets in a financially sustainable manner.
“We have 16,000 residents and more than 20 service areas from waste and recycling to maternal and child health, to libraries, parks and gardens. There is also more than $500 million of roads, bridges, buildings, footpaths and equipment to maintain, which will be particularly demanding after recent flood damage and with more flooding possible in coming months.
“It’s a huge job. Residents having their say will help Council’s Finance Team find the right balance.”
Residents are invited to respond by 5 pm Friday 20 January, or by contacting their Ward Councillor.
