Published on Wednesday, 31 July 2024 at 8:07:23 AM
At the July Ordinary Council Meeting held last night, the Denmark Shire Council voted to adopt the 2024/2025 Annual Budget, committing to another year of service delivery focused on community priorities.
In his President’s Message, Shire President Kingsley Gibson said this year’s budget “maintains our focus on the key needs identified in our Strategic Community Plan”, including roads, youth and environmental conservation.
“Road maintenance and renewal receives another funding boost this year as we work to address historic shortfalls in our roads budget,” Cr Gibson said.
More than $2.2 million is allocated for roads, pathway and drainage project delivery this year, in addition to the $1.6 million general roadworks maintenance budget which has been increased by more than $200,000, servicing the Shire’s road network which spans more than 600km.
Roads specifically marked for major upgrades this financial year include Mt Shadforth, Parker, Tindale, Cussons and Wentworth roads, with numerous paths, carparks and drains to also receive attention.
In the youth priority area, the revitalisation of Berridge Park is the next major project in the pipeline with $100,000 allocated in anticipation of external funding, $60,000 to allow the progression of the proposed Turner Road Mountain Bike Trails Network, and the Ocean Beach redevelopment carries on apace with millions of dollars invested in the future of this beloved community precinct.
More than $120,000 sits in this year’s youth services budget, including $70,000 for the Youth Outreach program targeted at at-risk youth in our community, plus more than $50,000 dedicated to youth activities and programs for the year ahead.
The popular Environmental Education Program continues to receive funding in this year’s budget, in addition to every team at the Shire working towards achieving Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan commitments, with more than $350,000 allocated to sustainable project delivery.
“Staff and Councillors have worked hard to maximise community-focused outcomes while staying within our capacity to both fund and deliver these and many other projects,” Cr Gibson said.
“I thank the community for their direction and guidance.”
More details about upcoming projects and initiatives will be made available in the coming weeks and months.
Important Links:
Annual Budget 2024/25 including Fees & Charges
Strategic Community Plan and Corporate Business Plan
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