Logan City Council has passed the second billion-dollar budget in its history, which includes several long-term projects to benefit the city in years to come.
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The theme 'Building on a brighter tomorrow' is reflected in significant investment in capital works programs and road infrastructure upgrades.
This includes a $38 million-dollar investment in sports infrastructure over the next five years, for club house upgrades and improved amenities, as well as the $9 million 'Jodie Henry' Olympic-size pool at Underwood.
$241.5 million will be invested in the city's road and water infrastructure, with key projects including an upgrade to Loganlea Road and the first phase of the upgrade to Middle and Teviot Roads.
The Budget also includes funding for a new Value for Money program, to ensure council services are delivered with cost-effectiveness in mind.
The council also hopes to further its green credentials, with more solar panels installed at council facilities and the annual Environmental Levy will increase by $7.
A new recycling facility at Browns Plains, delivered in partnership with the Ipswich and Redland City Councils, is also included as are ongoing mattress and polystyrene recycling programs.
Rate payers will see their bills increase, with those on the minimum general rate paying an extra 2.49 per cent each year, or $1.35 per week.
This is lower than other councils in the region, such as Brisbane City Council which announced a 4.93 per cent rate hike in its budget.
There is also a five per cent discount for prompt payment and other concessions available to pensioners.
Logan City Council expects by the end of the financial year in June 2023, the Budget will return an operating surplus of $3.65 million which amounts to 0.36 per cent of the total amount.
Mayor Darren Power said this was a hedge against inflation, which has increased significantly this year, and would help prevent a future budget deficit.
"We need a surplus because obviously we've got hyper-inflation happening," Cr Power said.
"We need the surplus in place because we don't want to deliver a deficit budget next year."
Do you think the predicted surplus is enough of a hedge against inflation? Tell us here:
Joe Colbrook
Journalist at The Examiner, covering local government and planning, emergency services, breaking news and court. Send tips to joe.colbrook@austcommunitymedia.com.au. Ex-Jimboomba Times, UQ Alumni
Journalist at The Examiner, covering local government and planning, emergency services, breaking news and court. Send tips to joe.colbrook@austcommunitymedia.com.au. Ex-Jimboomba Times, UQ Alumni
