The 2023 to 2033 Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) documents and 2023 to 2024 Fees and Charges were adopted by Council at its Ordinary Meeting held last week.
General Manager Tim Crosdale said the suite of IP&R documents guide our annual program of works with the Delivery Program, Operational Plan and Resourcing Strategy being the nuts and bolts of what we do.
“These documents outline the services we provide, how we provide them and the budget required to achieve it all,” Mr Crosdale said.
“These plans are the link between our Community Strategic Plan and the work our teams do on the ground each day,” he added.
Councils across NSW are required to review their Integrated Planning and Reporting documents on an annual basis. These plans include the revised Debt Recovery and Hardship Policy and the Enhanced Services Focus Areas identified by the community, which align directly with our application for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) to IPART.
“Last month, our SRV application was successful and although this increase brings Port Stephens from the lowest to the second lowest rates in the Hunter region, we know that it’ll still be tough for some in our community,” Mr Crosdale said.
“That’s why Council adopted a revised Debt Recovery and Hardship Policy outlines additional ways Council can support residents who are doing it tough.
“To help the most vulnerable and give more relief to ratepayers including pensioners who are experiencing hardship, we’ve made sure we have some new affordability measures in place,” he added.
“With the SRV starting in the July rates notices, we’re committed to delivering for our community in the best possible way.
“The Enhanced Services Focus Area Reserve outlines how funds will be allocated for roads, our natural environment, public spaces, foreshores and waterways as we build up additional funds from next financial year,” Mr Crosdale added.
The adopted documents include the:
- Delivery Program 2022 to 2026 and Operational Plan 2023 to 2024
- Resourcing Strategy 2023 to 2033 (incorporating the Workforce Management Strategy 2022 to 2026, Long Term Financial Plan 2023 to 2033, and Strategic Asset Management Plan 2023 to 2033)
- Fees and Charges 2023 to 2024
- Revised Debt Recovery and Hardship Policy
