MOUNT Gambier City Council has invited public feedback on its 2018/19 draft annual business plan and budget.
The draft plan/budget was formally endorsed by council this month.
“The draft document reflects the work of council in preparing the budget to support the strategies, initiatives, services and projects consistent with council’s community plan, long term financial plan and infrastructure and asset management plans,” business services general manager Pamela Lee said.
While services including the library, parks and infrastructure maintenance, waste collection and disposal continue to be a significant component of council’s budget, other key influences include the implementation of the reuse market, additional recycling costs due to China’s foreign waste ban, a continued focus on economic development including tourism and delivery of arts, culture and heritage supported by the Riddoch Art Gallery.
“The draft budget demonstrates that council’s financial position is positive with a forecast operating surplus of over $300,000 and no new loan borrowings and provides for a materially balanced budget,” Ms Lee said.
“Council’s long term financial plan predicts a 4.5pc increase in rate revenue, with an anticipated rate increase of approximately 4pc for 2018/2019.”
Community feedback informs council’s decisions about services, programs and projects provided year to year.
The 2018/2019 draft annual business plan/budget is available for download at Have Your Say Mount Gambier or in hard copy from the council office at the Civic Centre.
“Council is committed to listening and responding to the ideas and concerns of the community and endeavors to make it easier and more convenient for individuals to share their views on the draft document,” Ms Lee said.
The community is invited to provide feedback online at Have Your Say Mount Gambier or via email at city@mountgambier.sa.gov.au.
Feedback forms are also available at the Civic Centre or submissions can be made in writing addressed to 2018/2019 Draft Business Plan and Budget, City of Mount Gambier, PO Box 56 Mount Gambier SA 5290.
Community consultation closes on Friday May 11 at 5pm.
Council will formally consider all feedback before adoption of the final 2018/2019 annual business plan/budget in late June.
