2024-2025 Budget to build a better future for Gympie Region
Investment in critical infrastructure and a focus on improved service delivery to build a better future for Gympie has underpinned the 2024-25 Annual Budget handed down by Gympie Regional Council today (23 July 2024).
As part of this year’s Budget, the majority of households in Gympie will experience a general rates increase of 9.3%.
Mayor Glen Hartwig said it was a critical time in Gympie’s history, and Council must show strong leadership to ensure it can continue to provide quality service delivery and cater to the region’s growing needs.
“We are focused on building a better future for the community we serve, and that starts with putting the strong financial plans in place to better-equip our community with the services it needs to grow and prosper,” Mayor Hartwig said.
“We have shown strong leadership over the last four years with our ‘back to basics’ approach, which has now born its fruit with our improving cash positions and forward planning.
“In the last year we have worked hard to better-understand what needs to be done to fix significant gaps in our water, facilities, and other essential infrastructure.
“This year’s budget is about acknowledging the challenges we all face, but having the courage to do what is right for the community now, and to prevent even larger challenges later on.
“Just like households are experiencing increases in the cost of goods and services, Council is also experiencing significant cost increases to deliver vital projects for the region.
“Despite these challenges, we are focused on the future and this budget is about aligning our financial plans with quality service delivery and a Council our community can be proud of.”
Mayor Hartwig said the Budget would deliver a massive $105.87 million capital works program to address critical infrastructure improvements to keep up with the region’s growing needs.
“Water is our most precious resource so it’s vital Council invests in better quality systems and infrastructure to ensure our community has access to fresh, quality water sources,” he said.
“This budget includes a $14.7 million spend on water and wastewater to address ageing infrastructure and improve our service delivery for the future.
“We are heavily investing in road improvements to keep the region connected, with a $48.4 million program to restore our flood-damaged road network in partnership with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority – on top of a $10.1 million road resurfacing and widening program, $1.6 million gravel re-sheeting program, and $4.65 million bridge replacement program.
“This budget also includes a new ‘pothole team’ which will improve our services in addressing the region’s needs.”
This year’s budget also includes a $2.5 million budget to enhance parks and sporting facilities across the region.”
Cr Hartwig said strengthening community ties was an important part of Council’s plans for the future with continued investment in grassroots initiatives and programs.
“A key part of nurturing an inclusive, connected and safe community is the investment in activities and events that enhance the social, environmental and cultural wellbeing of the Gympie region,” he said.
“This year’s budget includes funding for a range of community initiatives such as events, environmental activities, social and community programs, and the arts.”
A full summary of the 2024-2025 budget can be found on Council’s budget page