Benalla Rural City Council has unveiled its strategic roadmap with the release of its latest Council Plan 2021-2025 Action Plan.
The Action Plan maps out a strategic approach to community and infrastructure development and sustainability until June 2025.
Mayor Cr Claridge highlighted the positive impact of these initiatives.
"The Action Plan underscores our commitment to addressing the evolving needs and aspirations of the Benalla Rural City community," Cr Claridge said.
The launch of the Action Plan coincides with the adoption of the Council's Annual Report 2022/23.
The report details a capital works program of $7.458 million with $2.3 million invested into road works and $2.4 million into buildings, primarily the redevelopment of the Benalla Visitor Information Centre.
On top of planned capital works, more than $6 million of emergency repairs were made to 120 impacted roads in response to the October 2022 flood event.
To assist Benalla Rural City recover from the flood, funding assistance was received from the Australian and Victorian governments. More than $6 million was received from the Natural Disaster Financial Assistance program and $1 million from the State Government's Flood Support Fund.
Cr Claridge commended the Council's natural disaster response, emphasising the resilience and unity demonstrated by Council staff working with the community, emergency services and local contractors.
Cr Claridge also thanked the Victorian and Australian governments for their continued support.
"I extend my gratitude to our engaged and active community, my fellow councillors, and volunteers who all contribute tirelessly to the betterment of Benalla Rural City".
Council has also delivered a range of major initiatives, including the development and implementation of the Benalla Rural City Municipal Health and Wellbeing Action Plan, the successful delivery of the Churchill Reserve off-leash dog park, Fawckner Drive road works, new footpath construction, an upgrade to the Mural precinct and a significant improvements to the Benalla Town Hall.
Key projects like the Benalla Indoor Recreation Centre Redevelopment, the Benalla Art Gallery Redevelopment and the production of an enhanced Benalla Rural City Environment Strategy have also been progressed.
As the Council moves forward, the themes outlined in the Council Plan Action Plan – a healthy and vibrant community, a robust economy, a sustainable environment, and effective leadership – will continue to guide its actions.
