Media Release - Budget 2018/2019 Preparations

Over the past six (6) months, Council has been reviewing and analysing data as part of the preparation for the 2018/2019 budget.  Mayor Keith Campbell explained that Council’s task, as a regional local government is to provide community essential services in an economically responsible manner. 

Essential services provided by local government are not limited to waste management, road maintenance and water treatment but include every service that Council is compelled to deliver under legislation.  These services range from town planning and environmental health management through to services that add to the social fabric of our community such as libraries and open spaces for play. 

“In the preparation of this budget particularly, we has been faced with the hard facts around what we can afford compared to what we have been delivering for the past 10 years.” Mayor Keith Campbell said.  “We know this budget will not be easy for anyone but we also know this budget is necessary to enable Council to be financially responsible on behalf of our ratepayers”. 

As per the Local Government Act 2009, last week Mayor Keith Campbell presented to the Councillors the proposed 2018/2019 budget for their final consideration prior to the budget adoption later this month.