A LOCAL council has included a rate rise of 3.4 per cent in its 2020/21 draft budget – a stark difference compared to its neighbouring councils.
The Mid Murray Council’s (MMC) 2020/21 draft annual business plan (DABP) and budget includes an operating deficit of $2.535m, with the council projecting to return to an operating surplus in 2028/29 of its long-term financial plan.
The council is continuing to offer hardship measures for ratepayers who have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis or other challenges, and MMC Mayor Dave Burgess said council is aware that some of its ratepayers are living in a high degree of financial uncertainty.
“We have minimised the proposed rate increase to ensure council can continue to remain sustainable, but we’re also looking at ways we can reduce our own expenses and deliver savings and efficiencies for our community,” he said.
“We will also continue to offer support for those who are genuinely struggling in the months to come, and I strongly encourage anyone who needs that extra assistance to get in touch.
“There are ways we can help you, and we’re all in this together.”
In its DABP and budget, the MMC recognised the challenges faced by its community over the past year, not only by the COVID-19 pandemic but the drought and recent Cudlee Creek bushfires.
Mr Burgess said the coming year will be one of rebuilding for both council and the Mid Murray community.
“Our region has certainly felt the economic impact of these crises and it’s unclear how long this uncertainty will carry on,” he said.
“This has been at the front of our minds in developing the DABP and budget. Elected members know the community and business sector are facing challenges, and council, too, has been impacted.
“We are focused on finding efficiencies and reducing costs, as many in our business sector have been forced to do.
“However, we also recognise the critical importance of maintaining a program of infrastructure and project spending to ensure the continued delivery of essential community facilities, as well as stimulation to the local economy by providing work and income for our local businesses.”
The District Council of Loxton Waikerie has set a proposed 2020/21 zero per cent rise, while Berri Barmera Council have also proposed zero per cent increase.
Renmark Paringa Council is yet to release its 2020/21 annual business plan.
Last year, the MMC reduced its 3.6 per cent rate rise to 2.9 per cent after negative feedback from ratepayers during its public consultation.
Public consultation on MMC’s DABP and budget will end at 5pm on Wednesday, June 3. For further information on how to submit feedback, visit www.mid-murray.sa.gov.au
Key MMC initiatives for 2020/21 include:
- Murray Coorong Trail: Mannum to Kia Marina and Swan Reach to Nildottie.
- $1m of drought funding projects.
- Blanchetown Projects Implementation Plan finalisation and delivery.
- ps Canally restoration project.
- Progression of Mid Murray International Dark Sky Reserve.
- Swan Reach master plan stage one delivery.
- Mid Murray Our Town 10-year mental health plan.
- Rating and representation reviews.