A TCC media release states: Townsville City Council is prioritising core services, adopting its 2024/25 Budget and Operational Plan today.
The $868.1 million budget is the first to be delivered by Townsville’s newly elected Council under Acting Mayor Paul Jacob and was passed during today’s Special Council Meeting.
Acting Mayor Paul Jacob acknowledged Council had been hit hard when it came to rising costs of materials and services, having to pass on an average rate and utilities increase of 5.1 per cent across the board.
“The 2024/25 budget is about maintaining our core services and ensuring we continue to deliver for our community now and into the future,” Cr Jacob said.
“It’s no secret the cost of everything has increased in recent years, and Council has not been immune to the challenges we’re facing globally. The increase to operational costs is significant, whether it be due to labour, materials, services or utilities.”
The Acting Mayor said he and fellow Councillors didn’t make this decision lightly.
“We are all in agreeance this action is necessary to continue to provide reliable and quality services for our community,” he said.
“We understand the financial pressure everyone is under; ratepayers will see an average increase of 5.1 per cent or around $3.78 a week extra on their rates and utilities notice this year.
“Council had previously absorbed costs throughout challenging times for the community, delivering minimal to no rate increases over the past decade, with the goal of easing cost pressures on residents. This is no longer sustainable.
“We have maintained a rates discount for owner occupiers who pay their rates on or before the due date.
“In order to do this, we have had to halve the discount from ten, to five per cent, we’re encouraging our community to utilise handy rates tools on our website which allows you to view your rates balance anytime and set up reoccurring direct debit payment options.
“We also have one of the most generous pensioner rate concessions in Queensland with up to $800 per annum available to eligible pensioners.”