Gunnedah Shire Council has adopted its 2023-24 Operational Plan, which includes $28.8 million in funding for capital works projects.
Mayor, Jamie Chaffey said the Operational Plan was Council’s guide to a financially responsible year, balancing the costs of services and infrastructure against the funding available.
“The 2023-24 Gunnedah Shire Council budget is nearly $66 million and includes $28.8 million of capital works,” Mayor Chaffey said.
“About 46% of this funding comes from grants and contributions that are awarded for specific projects or services, much of it from the State and Federal governments. Another 32% of the budget comes from rates and charges.”
He said Gunnedah Shire Council was responsible for the running and maintenance of facilities such as the Gunnedah Memorial Pool and the airport, the saleyards and many sporting fields.
“This is a responsible budget in difficult economic times. Councils across the state are facing financial stress from more than just the rising costs of services and products. Cost-shifting from the State to local government also means we are looking at reduced funds to meet expanded expenses.”
“I’m pleased that we have been able to listen to the concerns of a number of groups within our community and, in response, we have reduced some of the fees that were originally proposed for the swimming pool, showground and cultural precinct.
“This budget balances the needs of our community with the available funding, along with the critical requirement to keep the Shire’s infrastructure and assets in good shape for the future,” said Mayor Chaffey.
The Gunnedah Shire Council Operational Plan 2023/24 and Fees and Charges Schedule 2023/24 are available at www.gunnedah.nsw.gov.au.