Roads, sport, tourism and water infrastructure are the big winners in Kempsey Shire Council’s 2021-2022 budget.
Council announced the proposed Operational Plan for 2021-22 at its April ordinary meeting, which includes $82 million spending on 114 projects.
Kempsey Shire Mayor, Liz Campbell, called on the community to take the opportunity to read and respond to the budget document.
“This document is a summary of all the actions, programs and services that Council proposes to deliver in the next financial year within the framework of our long-term strategic plans,” said Mayor Campbell.
Council General Manager, Craig Milburn, described the Operational Plan as recognition of Council’s ongoing work to improve internal processes and financial sustainability, as well as a commitment to delivering on a number of big projects.
“Over the next 12 months, the organisation will focus on consolidating the strong gains achieved through the organisational transformation that has been underway over the past three years,” said Mr Milburn.
“In securing significant government grant funding in recent times, we have a substantial capital works program planned over the coming years. This huge program of works will deliver renewal, replacement and refurbishment to infrastructure across the Shire.”
Some of the key items identified in the draft Operational Plan for 2021-22 include:
- Significant investment in refurbishing and maintaining our roads and bridges network;
- Progress on water treatment plants at Crescent Head, Willawarrin and Steuart McIntyre Dam and sewer projects in Stuarts Point and South Kempsey;
- Delivery of key aspects of the Central Kempsey Sports Precinct, South West Rocks High Performance Centre and Macleay Valley Adventure Park;
- Implementation of Council’s Economic Development & Tourism Strategy;
- Construction of a new waste landfill cell at Council’s waste management centre.
He said the level of capital expenditure was high compared to historical levels thanks to Council’s success in applying for state and federal grant funding for projects.
The Operational Plan and associated documents will be on exhibition until 19 May 2021.
