2020/2021 Annual Business Plan and Budget Endorsed
The 2020/2021 Annual Business Plan and Budget was endorsed by Elected Members at Port Augusta City Council last night. The plan focusses on maintaining services and facilities for the community whilst continuing progress towards the long-term sustainability of the Council’s financial performance and position.
Council’s total operating revenue for the coming year will be $30,644,900 with 65.96% derived from rates, 20.29% from Federal and State grants, and the balance from other sources such as user charges, statutory charges and other income.
The average increase across all ratepayers will be 0%; however individual ratepayers may pay more or less than 2019/2020 depending on the movement in property’s site values. The average residential general rates will rise from $9 to $1,726.
Mayor Brett Benbow said “The Council was conscious of cost of living pressures in households, particularly in the current environment due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and confident this Budget strikes the right balance between addressing community needs and affordability.
“Over the coming 12 months we are going to focus on priority actions outlined in Council’s Strategic Directions 2019-2029 and 4 year Priority Action Plan,” Mayor Benbow said.
“We are also going to continue our focus on asset renewal with capital expenditure of over $4.8m outlined in the budget.”
“These projects will drive local employment, improve community wellbeing, and contribute to the development of infrastructure which will be enjoyed by future generations.”
Mayor Benbow said that community input plays an important part in the Annual Business Plan and Budget process.
“Local Government is the only sector of Government which consults with its communities on its budgets,” Mayor Benbow said.
“This year we received 14 submissions through our website and in writing, and I would like to acknowledge everyone who took the time to provide input into our Budget process.”
“We want our community to continue to provide feedback, so we can ensure the services and projects we deliver are in line with their needs and aspirations.”
Other key initiatives included in the coming year’s budget include:
- Removal of Samphire Grass within permitted limits from Westside beach areas
- Complete reviews of strategic documents including the Style Guide for the City, Disability Access & Inclusion Plan, AALBG Master Plan and Community Engagement Framework
- Develop an Indigenous Engagement Strategy
- Develop a Regional Waste Management Strategy
- Commence digital mapping of stormwater infrastructure
- Continue service level and range reviews
- Funding of over $96,000 for community events
A full copy of the Council’s 2020/2021 Annual Business Plan and Budget is online:
Download the 2020/2021 Annual Business Plan & Budget
For further information please contact Council’s Media and Communications Officer on (08) 86419100.
JOHN BANKS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
03/07/2020