The Gunnedah Shire Council Draft 2024/25 Operational Plan and Fees & Charges are now on public exhibition.
The Operational Plan details the works and services Council intends to undertake during the next financial year through responsible fiscal management of Council's $56 million total operating expenditure and a capital works program of $25 million.
"While Gunnedah Shire is in the enviable position of population growth, our Council is facing the same challenges local government is struggling with statewide and nationwide," Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey said.
"Our budget is lower than last year partly due to a lower level of State and Federal government funding, but we still need to meet the needs of a growing community, providing services from waste and recycling services, to road maintenance and repair and cultural and library services. In addition, we need to plan for the future to ensure Gunnedah Shire remains a great place to live and to do business.
"Council funds are being eroded by cost-shifting by the State and Federal governments, unworkable rate pegs and increasing inflationary pressures, putting enormous financial pressure on local government. Now is the time for Councils to address even tougher times around the corner."
Gunnedah Shire Council, along with regional Councils across New South Wales, is actively exploring options to secure long-term financial sustainability, including efficiency reviews, project prioritisation and possible Special Rate Variation application.
This Operational Plan includes nearly $25 million of capital works, including progress towards the Gunnedah Koala Sanctuary and the continued recovery of the road network following the 2022 floods.
"This is a time of challenge for local government, but this Operational Plan supports our long-term vision to build on the already attractive liveability of Gunnedah Shire, to retain future generations and attract new residents."
The Gunnedah Shire Council Draft Operational Plan 2024/25 and Draft Fees and Charges 2024/25 are on public exhibition until Thursday, June 13, 2024. To take a look, visit www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au or at the Gunnedah Shire Council Administration Building at 63 Elgin Street, Gunnedah.
Caption: The Gunnedah Koala Sanctuary takes shape.
