It includes a proposal for council to review its current revenue strategy, which sees the average property in all four towns pay about the same ordinary rate.
This strategy has not been reviewed for some time and the review will consider if this model remains a fair method of distributing the rating burden.
The rate cap imposed on Berrigan Shire for 2025-2026 is 4.6 per cent.
Council’s draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan, which is now on public exhibition, is the first developed directly from the Berrigan Shire 2040 strategic plan.
The two have been combined in one document for the first time to “allow for a streamlined document that is clearly integrated, easier to read, and easier to use as a tool to measure council performance”.
The delivery plan sets out the council’s commitments for the next four years and the resources it can draw.
The operational plan covers the next financial year only, and describes how council’s annual operations contribute to the achievement of the Berrigan Shire 2040 plan.
Council has said water and sewer fees and charges will increase by the allowable 4.6 per cent in the next financial year, with the low-pressure service currently under review to consider its future sustainability.
In the interim the annual low pressure sewer service charge has increased to $627 to meet the cost of service provision.
Waste collection charges have also increased by 4.6 per cent, while the stormwater management charge is unchanged.
Mayor Julia Cornwell McKean said while Berrigan has been a financially strong council for many years, increasing costs and the impacts of cost shifting to local government are starting to have an impact on the council.
She said this budget has been designed to take steps to “ensure our community remains strong, liveable, and financially sustainable - now and into the future”.
“For over 20 years, Berrigan Shire has maintained a healthy financial position.
“Unlike many other councils, we haven’t needed to ask for extra rate increases during that time. That’s something we’re proud of.
“However, things are changing. The cost of delivering services has gone up a lot, and our savings can’t keep covering the extra expenses.
“While we expect to break even this financial year, our forecasts show that without making changes now, we won’t be able to keep doing so in the years ahead.
“The time has therefore come for us to take a close look at our finances.
“Our draft 2025/26 operational plan and budget reflects a clear and responsible path forward and is now available for public feedback. They show clearly that we no longer have any financial ‘buffer’ in our reserves.
“To move forward responsibly, we’re focusing on four key areas: Reviewing the services we offer, improving how we work, realigning our organisation and exploring new ways to raise money.
“We’re also thinking long-term. Our 10-year financial plan outlines the challenges we face and the options we have to deal with them.”
Thanks to grants funding, council will continue to deliver on core upgrades and some major projects.
This includes continuing with the upgrades that have started in Murray St, Finley, putting powerlines underground on Chanter St in Berrigan and modernising the libraries.
“These projects do require some funding from council, and we’ve included that in our draft budget for the coming year.
“Our water and sewer funds remain financially healthy, and we’re continuing to invest in infrastructure that supports future growth.
Cr Cornwell McKean said given council’s direction with the budget and delivery plan, it is important for the community to view the proposals and provide feedback to council.
“We understand these are complex and sometimes worrying issues, and we want you to know we’re here with you every step of the way. Your voice truly matters.
“As we take a closer look at the services council provides and explore how we can fund them in the future, we’ll be asking for your input.
“We want to know what’s most important to you, so we can make decisions that reflect the values and needs of our community.
“Together, we can make sure Berrigan Shire continues to be a great place to live - now and for future generations.“
7°C