Waimate District Council’s Annual Report for 2023/24 highlights the achievements and progress towards the intentions of the third year of the Long Term Plan 2021-31.
The Annual Report was adopted at an Extraordinary Council Meeting on Thursday 31 October.
A highlight of the year was the commencement of the Waimate District Council Library extension and Council Chambers refurbishment. Other large projects included public toilet replacements, relining the Norman Kirk Memorial swimming pool, re-roofing community housing, upgrading the Edward Street wastewater system, in addition to ongoing work on roading and three waters infrastructure.
Financially, Council recorded a surplus of $2.652 million compared to a forecast deficit of $1.817 million. This was largely due to recognising income for assets which were vested to Council, previously unrecognised assets, increased contributions for water and sewer due to development, unbudgeted Three Waters Government funding, and reduced expenditure compared to what was expected across a variety of areas.
As the surplus for the year includes some large noncash items, it’s important to note that in cash terms, we received income of $21.7m and spent $24.93m on operating and capital expenditure. This required Council to draw down on cash reserves during the year and borrow $0.6m.
Mayor Craig Rowley said there had been some significant achievements amidst a challenging economic and regulatory climate for Councils.
“Council’s costs have increased on all fronts, and there continues to be significant uncertainty about how the Government will manage the legislation it imposes on territorial authorities,” Mayor Rowley said.
“I would like to thank Council staff, Councillors, contractors and the community for their efforts and contribution to the district.”
The 2023/24 Annual Report and summary is available to view on Council’s website, alternatively a hard copy of the summary is available at Council’s reception.
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