As a first term councillor with a background in the sugar industry, I have a particular interest in the rural parts of our council area.
With qualifications in corporate governance and accounting, I have to acknowledge that coming in as an independent candidate into an elected role has had its challenges.
It has been a rapid learning experience about the roles and responsibilities of the three tiers of government and how they are funded.
Local government has by far the lowest share of the tax dollar of the nation but is the closest to the population in terms of service delivery.
Right now there is a focus on the council Budget for 2025/26.
Whilst the Budget, and the methodology for the collection of rates, will not suit everyone, what I am pleased with is the commitment to infrastructure investment – a no frills, back to basics focus on the key essential infrastructure supporting our community.
Overall, there is $125.6M allocated to capital, and whilst there is a major investment in the Northern Beaches Community Hub, the majority of the program ($80.7M) will be focused on the renewal of existing assets, ensuring they are fully serviceable for the community.
Council’s current infrastructure includes the below, most of which is in the rural areas of our region:
· 931 rural roads (totalling 1615km, including 796km of sealed and 818km of unsealed roads).
· 31 boat ramps.
· 325 bus shelters and 465 bus stops.
· 190 bridges and 444 major culverts.
Key infrastructure investments this year include $10.05M for culvert rehabilitation projects, $6.63M for Bridge projects generally, and specifically $5.45M for the Bell Creek Bridge upgrade at Munbura.
These projects, as well as a large investment on unsealed road maintenance (more than $7M) are all focused on the rural areas of our region.
With a large and diverse council area, balancing the needs of all communities if difficult, however, it is pleasing to see the investment by council in key infrastructure, specifically supporting the more rural areas.
By Cr Peter Sheedy
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