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AN IMPRESSIVE suite of fresh projects heads a strong $16.49 million capital works injection in Douglas Shire Council’s 2018/19 Annual Budget.

The capital works program is Council’s second highest on record and features major infrastructure such as the $3m Noah Creek Bridge Renewal, $1.3m Craiglie Reservoir roof replacement, $460,000 to repair the Sugar Wharf and $250,000 to refurbish the Flagstaff Hill Communications Tower.

2018/19 ANNUAL BUDGET PAGE

Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said the budget featured something for everyone.

“This program will see projects sprout up across the whole Shire,” she said.

“Council has ensured a strong injection of essential works to meet the needs of our residents, but also thrown in some really exciting projects.”

MAYOR’S FULL BUDGET ADDRESS

A significant $3.8m investment has also been earmarked to improve water security with $1.17m towards water reticulation works and upgrades to the water treatment plants for Mossman ($974,000), Whyanbeel ($140,000) and Daintree ($92,000).

“This will be a great 12 months for Douglas Shire to move forward in water security, especially with the new Port Douglas Water Supply Reservoir Project ready in a few months,” Mayor Leu said.

“I have no doubt this will significantly strengthen our region’s resilience.”

Council will complete repairs to Flagstaff Hill Walking Trail ($200,000), design a drainage rectification program for Ribbons Avenue ($120,000), replace the decking on a pedestrian bridge at Hutchinson’s Creek ($115,000) and a complete culvert renewal on Upper Daintree Road ($270,000).

“This program will see projects sprout up across the whole Shire.”

FACT SHEET – 2018/19 BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

It comes after Council achieved a debt-free status and delivered three record capital works programs worth more than $50m in the past three years

“Ratepayers can also expect more projects with $970,000 secured for Round 2 of Works For Queensland project,” Mayor Leu said.

Council has also worked hard to minimise the impact of shire-wide land revaluations, including changes the rural production category.

COUNCIL 2018/19 OPERATIONAL PLAN INITIATIVES

Despite these land valuations, Council has been able to keep 75% of properties general rate increases at 3.9% or lower.

For a Residential 1 category that receives the minimum general rate and utilities charges, this equates to an increase of $2.22 per week.

“Council staff have worked incredibly diligently to get the best outcomes for Douglas Shire,” Mayor Leu said.

“Financial sustainability is Council’s number one goal and this budget will put Council in a position we have fiercely strived for since 2014.”

Council will also provide $433,000 in rates assistance to the community.

“Financial sustainability is Council’s number one goal and this budget will put Council in a position we have fiercely strived for since 2014.”

VISIT COUNCIL’S BUDGET OVERVIEW WEBPAGE HERE

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