By Cr Clare Le Serve

During the council meeting last week, the budget for the financial year 2024/25 was endorsed by our Councillors and is now open for community consultation.

This draft budget is modest and responsible, reflecting the current economic climate. We are all too familiar with the increased cost of living and increasing expenses and inflation. Council is not immune to these rising costs, but despite these pressures, we have been able to maintain our current service levels. This has required careful cost containment and targeted efficiencies. This is something that all levels of government will be experiencing as they prepare their budgets.

This budget will ensure that our council's financial position remains sound and capable of supporting the needs of our community. Our tracks and trails are also being improved with the Wonthaggi Inverloch pathway in the budget to commence construction. This is an important active link between these two towns.

There is also provision in the budget for Leisure and Recreation including maintenance for our parks and leisure facilities and upgrades to our sporting fields. Community consultation plays a vital role in shaping our budget priorities. I encourage all residents to participate in this process, which is open until May 16.

You can view the document on Engage Bass Coast and provide feedback directly on this website. We have several pop-up sessions where you can learn more about the draft budget and engage directly with our officers in Grantville, Cowes, Wonthaggi and Inverloch. Details of these sessions are on Engage Bass Coast or please contact our friendly Customer Service team.

I encourage everyone if you are available to attend the Change for Sam candlelight vigil on May 1. This has become an important annual event for Bass Coast to come together to remember and support those affected by family violence. 

I will be attending the ANZAC day dawn service at Bass this year. If you are looking for your nearest ANZAC Day event, please visit basscoast.vic.gov.au/anzacday.