Hepburn Shire Council, 10 September 2024
CheckedDecisions
-
Adopt Hepburn Shire Council Financial Vision 2024–2027
Adopted the Financial Vision as attached at the 10 September 2024 special meeting.
-
Apply for 2025/26 ESC rate cap variation of 10% plus ministerial cap
CEO authorised to apply; motion notes $1.56m estimated additional rates income.
-
Double pensioner rate rebates from $21 to $42 if ESC variation succeeds
For 2025/26, rebate increases from $21 to $42 if the ESC variation succeeds.
-
Align waste service charges with ministerial guidelines via revenue-neutral ESC variation
CEO authorised to apply for a 2025/26 ESC variation; noted as revenue neutral.
-
Identify $1.92m operational savings or revenue for 2025/26 budget
CEO to work with Councillors to identify savings or revenue opportunities by 30 June 2025.
Other notable items
- Community questioned rate increases, debt growth, and whether Hepburn should amalgamate or restructure.
- Mayor said deficits were timing or one-off issues, not cash shortfalls.
- Discussion included rising interest-bearing debt and borrowings for capital works.
Tech & Innovation Notes
- Live-streaming via Council’s Facebook page.
- Community engagement through the “Participate Hepburn” website.
- Exploring new technologies including AI and shared services or technology enhancements.