Building a sustainable community

Sunshine Coast Council has adopted a budget which will build a sustainable Sunshine Coast with quality roads, parks and services.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said the $604 million budget for 2012/13 includes $146 million for capital works across the region.

"This budget takes us another step closer to a sustainable community and lifestyle, a sustainable environment and sustainable economy," he said.

"We know many people are finding it difficult to make ends meet – and an average ratepayer will pay less than a dollar a week extra for rates and waste."

Highlights of the infrastructure budget include:

• $27 million for roads networks and reseal and rehabilitation program
• $18 million for the Maroochydore Principal Activity Centre
• $9.4 million for parks, trails and sports facilities
• 3.1 million for bridges
• $707,000 for beach restoration programs

Deputy Mayor Councillor Chris Thompson said the budget has also delivered quality services across the region while keeping rates below Council’s real costs.

"People on the Sunshine Coast have a lifestyle second to none, and part of that experience is having quality services across the Coast," he said.

The budget includes:

• $23.7 million for environment programs
• $8.5 million for community grants and partnership programs
• $7.1 million for libraries
• $5.2 million for public transport initiatives
• $1.9 million for major events and festivals such as the PGA, Noosa and Mooloolaba triathlons and Caloundra Music Festival

Council’s careful financial management has also ensured:

• continuation of pension remissions, estimated at $3.8million;
• continuation of early payment discounts, estimated at $8.8 million.

The budget has got the balance right, sustainable financial management coupled with quality infrastructure and services.