Glenorchy City Council has released its proposed budget for the coming financial year, focused on maintaining strong finances while continuing to invest in key community priorities.
The budget includes a proposed rate increase of 5.4 per cent.
This is designed to balance rising costs, increased service delivery and the need to avoid returning to a deficit.
Mayor Sue Hickey said Council had worked hard to strengthen its financial position in recent years.
“After a decade of multiple deficit budgets, reducing our debt to zero last year was a major achievement,” Mayor Hickey said.
“It means we are no longer paying interest or repayments, and we can plan with greater certainty for future investment.
“Now is not the time to undo that progress by returning the budget to deficit.”
Mayor Hickey said Council was also mindful of cost-of-living pressures.
“We understand many households are doing it tough, which is why the proposed increase is broadly in line with CPI movements.
“At the same time, we need to ensure Council can continue delivering services and maintaining infrastructure for our growing community.”
The budget also makes provision for the reopening of the Glenorchy War Memorial Pool, with operating costs expected to be around $450,000 per year.
“The pool will reopen ahead of summer, which is something the community has strongly supported,” she said.
“More than 90 per cent of residents backed its refurbishment, and we are nearing completion of an almost $7 million project to bring it back into use.”
The proposed budget includes significant investment across the city, including:
- $21.1 million in capital works, including road resealing and footpaths.
- $2.6 million for community services, including operation of the new Youth Hub.
- $1.7 million to deliver a destination playground at Tolosa Park.
Mayor Hickey said investment in public spaces remained a key priority.
“The transformation of Tolosa Park into a regional recreation destination is something we’re very proud of,” she said.
“The new playground will build on that and create an even more attractive space for residents and visitors.
“Investing in places people want to use and enjoy is essential to making Glenorchy a great place to live and raise a family.”
