Delivering on our commitment for a more connected, vibrant and prosperous region
The new Waves Fitness & Aquatic Centre, Kenthurst Park and Deepwater Circuit Reserve are just some of the big ticket items that have received funding in The Hills Shire Council's Draft Hills Shire Plan 2021/2022.
The Draft Plan, which was endorsed during Tuesday's Ordinary Meeting of Council, is expected to allocate $174.2 million on delivering new infrastructure, as well as refreshing and maintaining existing community facilities, such as parks and playgrounds, during the 2021- 22 financial year with a balanced and debt free budget.
Council will also invest a further $43.7 million in a number of key services, such as Hills Community Care and The Hills Shire Library Service, to ensure they remain active and available to residents.
Another $500,000 will be used to promote economic and business growth in the region.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said Council is committed to providing services and facilities that allow residents to live their very best lives and the Draft Plan goes a long way in supporting this.
"We live in one of the fastest growing Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Sydney. While it's been a challenge to meet demand, it's also been exciting time to see how we manage and plan for growth, as well as ensuring those qualities that first attracted people to move here, such as family-friendly suburbs, remain in place for future generations," Mayor Byrne said.
"Our Draft Plan shows how much we are investing in our services and facilities, while building new infrastructure and retaining our current assets.
"We've committed $41.4 million to essential services, such as Meals on Wheels and child care services, and to the operation of the new Waves Fitness & Aquatic Centre.
"Council has put aside $1.8 million to continue major community events, including Australia Day and Orange Blossom Festival, and a further $9.9 million to plan and shape growth for the future.
"Another $50.3 million will go towards maintaining our environment, as well as regulatory services, health and monitoring and waste and recycling.
"I'm really proud of this Plan and the work this Council is doing to establish positive outcomes for this community," Mayor Byrne added.
Some of the key highlights from the Plan include:
- $7.5 million for The Water Lane Reserve playing fields;
- $1.9 million on Kenthurst Park extension to the upper field;
- $583,000 for Deepwater Circuit open space embellishment;
- $21 million for new and renewal of existing roads;
- $3.2 million for traffic facilities;
- $1.9 million for new footpaths, cycleways and bridges;
- $3.2 million on street lighting;
- $3.1 million to purchase plant equipment;
- $92.6 million to acquire land for infrastructure and open space embellishment;
- $2.1 million for various embellishments for parks and playgrounds;
- $13.5 million to maintain existing parks and bushland;
- $11.8 million to maintain civil assets;
- $3.8 million for stormwater and waterways projects.
Mayor Byrne said that while the COVID-19 pandemic had affected Council finances, it still remains 'fit for the future'.
"We still don't know the true impact COVID-19 has had on our Council. Last year, we had to temporarily close some of our venues and services as a result of the Public Health Orders that were put in place to manage the spread of the virus," Mayor Byrne said.
"Despite this, Council was able to minimise the impact due to the many years of strong fiscal management. This enabled us to continue to provide services and roll out essential infrastructure so that residents can still enjoy everything that they love about the Hills.
"The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, but we are in a strong financial position to meet challenges that come our way," Mayor Byrne added.
The Draft Plan is now on exhibition for a period of 28 days.
"I encourage all residents, businesses and stakeholders to provide further feedback to Council during the public exhibition period, to ensure that everyone has their say," Mayor Byrne added.
To find out more and provide feedback, please visit the Council's 'Have Your Say' webpage which can be accessed via a tab on the homepage, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au.
