All governments are facing challenging economic times and it is crucial that we do everything necessary to establish long-term financial sustainability at the City of Greater Geelong.
Last week councillors endorsed the public exhibition of the Proposed 2023-24 Budget, so it is now open for community feedback and we encourage residents and ratepayers to comment.
This proposed budget has a strong focus on financial responsibility. The leadership team has looked at all elements of the organisation to find savings and opportunities to invest in the community; to provide best value for all residents.
We have aimed to deliver a balanced budget, which forecasts a small operating surplus while maintaining high levels of investment in both new and upgraded community assets.
Our spend on capital projects continues, with more than $616.2 million allocated over the next four years.
In 2023-24 we will deliver a wide range of upgrades to our existing assets as well as providing key new infrastructure.
One of the big projects set to be funded in Ocean Grove is at Devlins Road Reserve.
A total of $5.015 million will be spent across three years on the detailed design and construction of a pavilion, sports fields, sports lighting and other infrastructure.
This is an exciting development, particularly for those living in the Kingston Estate, and I’m confident it will be much-loved and well-used.
I’m also pleased we have maintained our sponsorships of community Christmas carols, including the popular Carols in the Park. These events are warmly welcomed every year and consistently well attended. It’s always a joy to see our local community spirit is on display.
It is really important to remember that this is a proposed budget. We are listening to your feedback.
As always, please go to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au to express your views. I strongly encourage everyone to provide their thoughts so we can deliver what the community wants.
Our aim is to be a high performing council that provides outstanding value to its community, and this budget will hopefully set the platform for us to do that in a sustainable way in the future.
