Passing the second rate rise in as many years, Whitsunday Regional Council have delivered what Councillor John Collins coined ‘the hardest Budget I’ve seen in 10 years at Council’.
This year’s Budget was announced at a special meeting held at the Bowen Chambers last Friday morning and included a four per cent rate rise, equating to $3.71 per household per week.
“This is less than a Cherry Ripe or a cup of coffee,” said Acting Mayor Mike Brunker when delivering the budget.
With inflation running at six per cent in Queensland, Council had faced increased costs while also having less money coming in through reduced Federal and State government grants.
Cr Brunker said that there have been many robust debates between Councillors since Budget discussions commenced in April and that the finance team has created the best possible outcome in terms of maintaining our standard of liveability during tough times.
“We strive to reduce costs where we can so we can spend it where we must,” said Cr Brunker.
“This is a balanced Budget that continues to deliver services and enhance the liveability of our region, without compromising our future financial sustainability.”
Rates and charges account for $96.3 million out of Council’s $137 million operating costs and the majority of this is put into water and sewerage as well as maintaining roads and footpaths.
While ensuring liveability and services are maintained within the region, Council have also guaranteed sound financial management with a $227,000 operating surplus and are committed to debt reduction by allocating $5.4 million to reduce current loans.
Key Points:
•Inflation and reduced government support means rates have risen by 4 per cent or $3.71 per week per household
•Council will end the next financial year with a debt of less than $70 million for an asset base of $1.2 billion, in simple terms that compares to effectively owing just $70,000 on a $1.2 million home
•The Whitsundays has one of the most generous pensioner rates concessions in Queensland
•Council has a procurement policy that ensures the majority of work is awarded to local business so that money stays within the region
The Finance Team - L-R: Julie Moller Manager Strategic Finance, Leah Bradley Manager Financial Services and Katie Coates Management Accountant with Acting Mayor Mike Brunker (centre)
