Councillor Joel Richters says the Southern Downs Regional Council could have done more for the community in the proposed budget.
“I’m pleased we can present a plan that delivers upon a commitment for fiscal responsibility, however I’m left feeling we could have done more for our community,” he said at the council’s special meeting to release the proposed budget for public consultation.
“Clearly, some people are going to be happy while others will be furious,” he said.
He said that while he was generally supportive of the capital budget and forecasts, the challenges being faced had to be acknowledged.
“The rating review shifts more of the financial burden onto our commercial and industrial sectors. While this is necessary for the overall health of the budget, it’s crucial to recognise the impact it may have on businesses within our community,” he said.
“As the custodian of public funds, we must address the missed opportunities within this budget. Investing in revenue-generating initiatives could have provided long-term financial stability for our region rather than allocating resources towards the construction of a $6 million landfill cell at Warwick. All we are doing is kicking the can down the road.
“Additionally, reducing fees and charges for community facilities would have encouraged greater use and overall greater revenue, the flow-on effect would allow community groups greater access to our larger facilities.
“We also missed the chance to include rebates in planning and development fees, incentivising increased density in in-fill development.”
Cr Richters said he would actively pursue these initiatives separately from the budget, recognising their importance in meeting the housing crisis head-on to promote affordable homes for the young and old.
“Moreover, the decision to decrease our borrowings rather than reinvesting our nearly $1 million surplus into rate reductions, could have provided much-needed relief for families struggling with financial burdens,” he said.
“We must remain mindful of the immediate needs of our community and that governments all around Australia are focussed on the cost of living pressures that we seem to have overlooked.”
He said he was eager to hear the feedback and concerns of the community.
“We have been advised there is insufficient time for face-to-face consultation, however I disagree. Regardless of the short time frames, we should leave no stone unturned in our efforts to communicate with our constituents. I’m planning community meetings to be held over the next few weeks to discuss the budget and I would encourage councillors to join with me.”
People can attend the Warwick community meeting on 26 June at 5.30pm at the Warwick Town Hall. (A Stanthorpe event was planned for 19 June.)
