10 June 2024
Southern Downs Regional Councillors will attend a Special Meeting on Wednesday 12 June to consider the 2024/25 Draft Budget prior to inviting public consultation from Thursday 13 June.
Ahead of the meeting, Mayor Melissa Hamilton emphasised the significance of community involvement in the budgeting process, saying that the 2024/25 Draft Budget reflects Council’s commitment to building vibrant, liveable communities in the Southern Downs whilst remaining realistic about the cost of living pressures.
“Recognising the continued cost of living pressure on households, we have focused the 2024-25 Draft Budget on delivering essential services,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“It is proposed that there will be no increase to the residential General Minimum Rate, as we try to rebalance our rating system to ensure a fairer and more equitable system for our residential ratepayers.
“In the longer term, a downward pressure on rates can only be achieved through encouraging sustainable growth and attracting new business and development in the region, and that is something that will be a key focus for the new Council.
“I encourage residents to review the 2024/25 Draft Budget documents and participate in the process, as community input helps Council prioritise and allocate resources effectively.
“By working together, we can focus our spending to build vibrant, liveable communities across the Southern Downs.”
Community feedback is important
The 2024/25 Draft Budget will be available online for review at https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/have-your-say from Wednesday 12 June. Hard copies will also be available at Council’s Administration Buildings and Libraries. Feedback can be emailed to mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au or submitted at Council’s Administration Buildings in Warwick and Stanthorpe.
Consultation opens: 8am Thursday 13 June 2024
Consultation closes: 5pm Friday 28 June 2024
Following public consultation, the final draft budget will be presented to Councillors for adoption at a meeting on Wednesday 24 July 2024.
Last edited date 24 Jun 2024