20 July 2007
File Reference No: 2007 2008 Annual Plan and Budget Estimates

At a Council meeting held on 19 July 2007, the Circular Head Council adopted the 2007/2008 Annual Plan and Budget Estimates, announcing an average increase of 3.32 % for Council rates and charges.

At a Council meeting held on 19 July 2007, the Circular Head Council adopted the 2007/2008 Annual Plan and Budget Estimates, announcing an average increase of 3.32 % for Council rates and charges.

General Manager, Greg Winton said "Community needs, expectations and priorities have certainly come to the fore in the latest budget deliberations. Financial sustainability in the light of greater economic pressures on Council-related costs has been offset by strong financial management of its resources. Certainly the moderate increase is reflected in the strong fiscal position despite the significant expenditure being planned this year."

Mayor, Ross Hine speaking at the meeting said "Council officers should be congratulated on presenting a Budget which directs community funds appropriately. Road infrastructure, economic development and an increased emphasis on recreation/leisure services are all major activities being addressed by this Budget".

Revaluations of all rateable properties occurred during last financial year. Although there has been an increase in property values, the total Rates imposed by the Council have not increased as a result of the revaluation. Changes to property valuations above, or below, the overall average increase will however have an effect on the rates charged to individual properties. The Council has decided not to introduce a differential rating system for the 2007/08 financial year.

Rates for Waste and Sewage Disposal, and Water Reticulation have all increased by 4.0%. The State Government Fire Levy has increased by approximately 13.99%.

Council has reviewed its costing mechanisms and further aligned its charges with the Government Prices Oversight Commission's recommended guidelines. This has resulted in revised cost allocations and the subsequent increase in water reticulation rates for the 2007/08 year. Revaluations of infrastructure assets in line with condition assessments will occur during this financial year resulting in a more accurate economic assessment.

Finance Assistance Grants and Roads 2 Recovery funding significantly impacts on the Council's ability to maintain a strong budget position. Continuation of these funds in conjunction with recognition of the unique problems facing small, rural councils is of paramount importance.

Significant expenditure items include:-

  • $850,000 to improve the Togari road network
  • $350,000 to seal Upper Scotchtown/Mauds Road
  • $474,000 to replace three bridges
  • $365,000 to reconstruct Nelson Street, between Smith and Gibson Streets, Smithton
  • $270,000 to reseal 15 kilometres of bitumen roads
  • $180,000 to seal Brooks Road, Smithton
  • $120,000 for improvements to Emmett Street, between Murray and Billing Streets, Smithton
  • $100,000 to install additional Playground Equipment
  • $49,500 to undertake improvements to King Park, Stanley
  • $76,000 to undertake improvements to West Esplanade, Smithton
  • $50,000 to commence implementation of Walking Tracks
  • $25,000 to commence a feasibility study to replace/refurbish the Smithton War Memorial Swimming Pool

Rate notices will be distributed by the end of July.

Authorised for general media distribution by Greg Winton, General Manager, Circular Head Council on Thursday, 19 July 2007.

Office: 33 Goldie Street, Smithton, TAS 7330

Postal Address: PO Box 348 Smithton, TAS 7330

Telephone: (03) 6452 4800

Facsimile: (03) 6452 4861

E-mail council@circularhead.tas.gov.au