Ashburton Council adopt 2020/21 Budget

Shire of Ashburton Council endorsed the 2020/21 annual budget at this week’s Ordinary Meeting of Council pledging their commitment in progressing a $63M capital works program.

Shire President Kerry White acknowledged that is was a good budget, one that carried the strategic direction of Council to progress infrastructure projects of economic and community importance, and one that also delivers associated essential services to the district.

“The 20/21 budget sets out to achieve 81 capital works projects”, said Councillor White.

“This includes ongoing projects carried over from last financial year and the progression of some much-anticipated projects.

“Those projects that are of significant economic and community importance include the Child Care Centre, Emergency Services Precinct, Footpath Renewal program, actualisation of the Pump Track and Tennis Club upgrade in Tom Price.

“In Onslow work will start on the design and planning for the Marina Upgrade, progression gym and childcare facilities, Ocean View Caravan Park upgrade and continuation of the construction of the Class IV Pilbara Regional Waste Management Facility.

“Across the Shire we will complete a Rural Unsealed Roads program and undertake a Safer Communities Initiative with a CCTV and Security Lighting Program for each of our townsites with other commitments including lighting and fencing of our sports precincts, electronic scoreboards for the CHUB at Paraburdoo and development of the Tom Price tourist information bay.

“And excitingly, design and planning works for the Shire’s new Administration Building in Tom Price can get underway.

“The biggest challenge of 19/20 could not have been predicted when Council adopted the budget and set out our roadmap for the year ahead last year.

“The worldwide economic impact and effect of COVID-19 has been unprecedented and as a local government we have provided support and financial assistance to local businesses and community organisations that have experienced hardship due to the restrictions put in place to reduce the spread of the virus.

“Along with our fellow Local Governments we have also held rates for 2020/21 and have added more flexible payment arrangements with no special fees and interest charges along with rent relief on leases to small businesses, community groups and clubs.

“I’d like to also acknowledge the Shire’s staff who have delivered a strong budget for the 2020/21 financial year and look forward to further developing a vibrant, connected and active Ashburton community that has access to quality services, exceptional amenities and economic vitality”.

For media information

Alison Lennon, Manager Media and Communications, Shire of Ashburton

M: 0409 314 140 | E: [email protected]

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