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Meeting the Challenges
Last modified: July 20, 2009 - 9:22 AM
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Cr Michael Johnsen |
The Upper Hunter Shire Council has adopted its 2009/10 Operations Plan and Budget, retaining rates within the NSW Governments rate pegging limits and providing a strong focus on rural road and bridges.
The process for Council each year involves a series of public meetings around the Shire, public exhibition and consideration of public submissions. Mayor Michael Johnsen said he was pleased with the level of feedback this year. "It is great to see the community more involved in the process and looks forward to continued growth in involvement by the community in future years."
Cr Johnsen said "While the budget is balanced, there are significant challenges ahead for Council, particularly in a difficult global economy, when governments reign in expenditure and the cost of business exceeds revenue limitations" he said. "Council is in a sound financial position and will continue to act prudently and responsibly to maintain that position."
Despite the economic outlook this year, will be a positive year for Council. A major bridge replacement program will see three new bridges constructed in the Shire and another next year. These new bridges will replace old timber bridges that have reached the end of their economic life.
The new Administration Centre in Scone will be completed in the coming months which will provide for the current and future development of the Shire, bringing staff into a more efficient workplace, with improved technology and facilities for Council and the community.
The Scone/Aberdeen Water Augmentation project, valued at some $20 million has been included in Council's plans for the next three (3) years, though whether it proceeds as planned rests with the State Government who are yet to provide the funding announced in last years State Budget. "We continue to press for this funding". Mayor, Michael Johnsen said.
"The new year will bring with it many challenges for Local Government and for the Upper Hunter Shire in particular. New developments proposed for the Shire, planning for the long term both fiscally and environmentally will exercise the minds of Councillors, staff and the community. We look forward to the challenges ahead." Mayor Michael Johnsen said.
Contact details
Upper Hunter Shire Council
Tel: 02 6540 1100
Fax: 02 6545 2671
council@upperhunter.nsw.gov.au
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