General News
12 November, 2024
$9.64m surplus for council
THE late arrival of a multimillion-dollar grant from the Federal Government has hit the back pocket of Cassowary Coast Regional Council but not as bad as the deficit by Douglas Shire Council ($6.2 million).
The Cassowary Coast Regional Council annual report 2023-2024 reports a net surplus of $9.64m, compared to a deficit of $1.3m in the previous year.
The report said operational grants, contributions and donations were $3.4m for 2023-2024, a decrease of $8.1m (-239 per cent) compared to the prior year.
“This large decrease is a result of the timing of the payment of the 2024-2024 Financial Assistance Grant ($5.5m) which based on the prior year was expected and forecast to be received at the end of June 2024 but instead was paid early July 2024,” the report said.
It also noted:
Operating revenue was $90.2m. Rates, levies and charges continue to be the major source of income for the council at $76.8m, an increase of $4.4m.
Capital revenue, from state and commonwealth governments was $25.4m, a significant increase of $16.4m compared to the prior year due to increased grants for projects including the Port Hinchinbrook sewerage treatment plant.
Operating costs were $98.9m, an increase of $7.8m
Depreciation was another major component of operating expenses at $32.5m.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the report highlighted “our dedication to the essential services that sustain our vibrant community”.
She acknowledged the significance of community involvement in shaping the council’s priorities, with the 2024 community scorecard collecting over 100,000 words of feedback that will guide future planning.
“Your voices have made it clear that priorities like roads, footpaths, cycleways, health services, youth programs, and safety remain top of mind,” she said.
Throughout the year, council’s partnerships at regional, state and federal levels have advanced several key projects, including:
Mission Beach town centre revitalisation project
Port Hinchinbrook sewerage treatment plant and revitalisation
Banyan Park beautification
Hyatt Street reservoir
Primary healthcare initiatives.
Cr Millwood emphasised the ongoing focus on roads and waste management, announcing the roll-out of kerbside recycling and advancements in the unsealed roads program.
Chief executive officer Andrew Graffen said the council had “strengthened our community’s resilience, particularly in response to and recovery from severe Tropical Cyclone Jasper and the associated flooding”.
“Council acted swiftly, implementing kerbside collection and establishing community and economic recovery hubs, which supported residents and businesses in restoring a sense of normalcy,” he said.
