By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
IF you’ve ever wanted to have a say on where council funding is directed, here’s your chance.
Cardinia Shire Council is inviting residents to share what council-funded services are most valued in the community through a series of upcoming forums.
The ‘Big Budget Brainstorm’ is an opportunity for Cardinia Shire residents to have their say on how the council allocates its budget.
Mayor Leticia Wilmot said developing the budget was a balancing act and that there were many different factors to take into consideration.
“Our goal is to ensure the budget is both realistic and sustainable, so that we are not spending beyond our means,” she said.
“It is an ongoing challenge each year to make sure the roads, bridges, sporting and community facilities, services and support are managed and maintained for our existing and future communities.”
She added that the council had taken measures towards operating more efficiently.
“We have been working hard to reduce operating costs and find savings through increased efficiency. A great deal of work has already been done by taking an innovative approach to service delivery and by listening and working with communities,” she said.
“This has saved the council around $729,000 this year and about $4.15 million in savings over the past six years.”
The community forums will be held at the following locations:
Kooweerup: Wednesday 4 November, 1pm-2.30pm and 6pm-7.30pm at Kooweerup Community Centre.
Gembrook: Thursday 5 November, 1pm-2.30pm and 6pm-7.30pm at Gembrook Community Centre.
Pakenham: Tuesday 10 November, 1pm-2.30pm and 6pm-7.30pm at Cardinia Cultural Centre.
Bunyip: Thursday 12 November, 1pm-2.30pm and 6pm-7.30pm at Bunyip Hall.
Anyone wishing to register for a Big Budget Brainstorm can do so via the council website or by phoning 1300 787 624.
