Council budget adopted
AT council’s June scheduled meeting, the 2023-24 budget was adopted.
We received 12 submissions to the draft budget during the advertising period, which were heard at a special council meeting on May 30.
Following reflection of the questions and responses, council determined that there was no requirement to amend the draft budget.
However, will look at amending the revenue and rating plan, to allow for some more flexibility in the coming years.
I would like to extend my thanks to all those who made a submission and provided their input.
Our 2023-24 budget plans for a rate rise of 3.5 per cent and continues council’s focus of striving for efficiency in its operations, while delivering high-quality services and facilities to the community.
We have many projects on the horizon, or set to commence soon, and it is an exciting time for our municipality.
We look forward to continuing to deliver vital services for our communities over the next 12 months.
The 2023-24 budget is available at www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/about/overview/budgets-and-reports/budget
Budget highlights included Robinvale Leisure Centre splash park ($500,000), Centenary Park nature play precinct ($1.4 million), art gallery redevelopment ($6.6m), cultural and tourism hub development ($5m), waste management site compliance and improvements ($3.86m), Empower Youth Initiative ($210,000), Swan Hill stormwater model and strategy ($162,000) and street lighting upgrades ($111,000).
Others were Tower Hill stage 16 ($1.8m), Robinvale Skate Park ($295,000), sealed roads renewal works ($5m), unsealed roads renewal works ($1.1m), renewal works to community buildings ($443,000), footpath replacement ($600,000), data and technology strategy ($1.05m), continued funding for Swan Hill Riverfront Masterplan projects ($617,000), planning, design and consultation for Karinie Street reconstruction ($150,000) and Swan Hill Showgrounds precinct master planning ($159,000).
Debt collection to resume
COUNCIL is resuming debt collection procedures following a period of suspension during COVID.
Legal means will be used to collect outstanding monies owed, while having due regard to genuine applications for financial hardship.
We understand that some residents in our municipality may be suffering from financial hardship and we will endeavour to enter individual payment arrangements.
Special consideration may include an interest-free period, or partial or full deferral of unpaid rates. Applications for special consideration will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
For more information about council’s debt collection policy, visit www.swanhill.vic.gov.au/about/overview/policies/debt-collection
Aged care transition
AT our June council meeting, an in-principle determination was made to conduct an orderly transition from community-based aged care services by June 30, 2024.
Councils from across Victoria are determining their future role and focus, in response to the national reform of the aged care service system.
Many local governments, including our neighbouring municipalities, have opted to withdraw from funded service delivery and develop valuable alternative roles to reach older people.
This decision will allow our council officers to negotiate with the Commonwealth to formalise at least one appropriate provider, agree on a date of transition, and ensure all existing clients are properly transitioned.
Our priority is existing clients and our staff, and that services continue to be available to the community in the future.
Council has undertaken a large amount of work over the last decade in the lead up to this decision and will continue working to ensure that the best outcome is achieved for all.
Business networking events
COUNCIL will host two business networking events this month.
The first was held in Swan Hill on Wednesday and was an opportunity for business owners to come together and discuss employment challenges.
Attendees heard from a panel of experts while enjoying refreshments.
The next event will be held in Robinvale on Wednesday, July 12 and is open to all business owners and interested community members.
Several council representatives will be there to provide updates on the region, including chief executive Scott Barber.
Two really excellent opportunities to come together in a business sense and network with like-minded people – I’d strongly encourage attending, if you are able.
For more information, or to register, visit www.swanhill.vic.gov.au
NAIDOC Week
THIS week in the region, and right across Australia, we celebrate NAIDOC Week.
It has been fantastic to see the activities buzzing right across our municipality, as we celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
I’d encourage everyone to take this opportunity to learn about First Nations’ rich cultures and histories.
