Current Situation
- The rising cost of living is putting real pressure on families and individuals across the Sorell municipality.
- More than ever, Councils spending and the cost oft rates are in the forefront of peoples mind.
The Issue
- Every dollar collected in rates is money out of the budget of local families. Residents need to know their contributions are being spent wisely, on things that genuinely improve their lives and the community.
- Council has a responsibility to provide the best ‘bang for buck’ for residents when considering new contracts, prioritising infrastructure spending and new initiatives. When spending is viewed as not in the best interest of the community, this leads to a loss of trust.
My Plan
- Any spending outside of standard service delivery, (infrastructure projects, new initiatives, park upgrades etc) must be supported by a clear business case that demonstrates community benefit, value for money, and affordability.
- Council to regularly and transparently report on major project costs, timelines, and outcomes, so residents can see exactly where their rates money is going.
- Early and genuine community engagement on all significant projects. Getting input upfront avoids costly rework later and produces better results.
- All my policies are cost neutral, revenue generating, or funded within existing budget allocations.
- Any new proposed rate increases will be scrutinised based on demonstrated need, with no future rate rises that are not clearly justified.
The benefits
- Families and individuals across the Sorell municipality have already stretched budgets to cover the rising cost of living. Even modest restraint on rate increases keeps money in people's pockets.
- When residents can see their rates being spent carefully and on clearly needed projects, they are more likely to engage with Council, support new initiatives, and feel genuinely represented.
- Transparency, accountability and proactively encouraging constructive criticism reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes, wasted money and damaged relationships between Council and the community.
- A Council with a reputation for financial responsibility attracts stronger grant applications and greater confidence from state and federal funding bodies.