Published on Friday, 28 July 2023 at 12:13:26 PM
The Shire of Plantagenet 2023-2024 budget balances responsible financial management with catering for the immediate and future needs of the community.
Shire President Chris Pavlovich said the budget, adopted by the Council on 25 July, comprised of $20.6 million of operating expenditure and $10.2 million of capital expenditure.
“We have targeted spending to services and projects that are important to the community highlighted through engagement and strategic planning,” Cr Pavlovich said.
“Major projects include up to $3.75 million towards the next stage of the Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool redevelopment, subject to final design and costing,” he said.
“The Council has allocated $370,000 towards infrastructure on Pwakkenbak (Mount Barker) Tower Hill to complement the 10-kilometres of mountain bike trails being built by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, as part of our vision to become one of the state’s premier mountain biking destinations.”
“In addition, $150,000 has been allocated towards the development of a youth recreational precinct at Wilson Park, in response to community engagement that identified enhancing parks, recreational spaces and youth services and facilities as key priorities, and $120,000 to upgrade the ablution facilities at the Porongurup Hall which is long overdue.”
“The community has told us that roads and footpaths are high priorities, so the Council has allocated $2.43 million to road and drainage programs. This budget sees us transition from a construction period to a maintenance period, aimed at improving drainage, culverts, and preventing vegetation regrowth. Our aim is to preserve vital road assets for future generations.”
“The Council will provide financial support to community groups and organisations with grants worth more than $108,000, across sport, arts and tourism, among others. We value our strong volunteer base and always happy to provide support for sustainability into the future.”
Cr Pavlovich said that despite increasing operating costs, these projects and services would be delivered keeping a tight rein on spending to retain a modest five percent rates increase, less than the Consumer Price Index.
“This budget aligns with our vision to build a sustainable and respectful community where the environment is preserved and natural beauty and diversity provide opportunities for all,” he said.
The budget can be viewed at: https://www.plantagenet.wa.gov.au/documents/549/20232024-annual-budget
2023-2024 budget highlights:
- $3.75 million - stage 1B of the Mount Barker Memorial Swimming Pool redevelopment
- $2.43 million road and drainage projects
- $370,000 - infrastructure (parking and public amenities) on Pwakkenbak/Tower Hill
- $150,000 - Wilson Park youth recreational precinct
- $120,000 – Porongurup Hall ablution facilities upgrade
- $108,154 – returning to the community via community grants
Pictured: The Council has allocated $370,000 towards infrastructure on Pwakkenbak (Mount Barker) Tower Hill to complement the 10-kilometres of mountain bike trails being built by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. Credit: Shire of Plantagenet
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