It’s business as usual for Hurstville Council while it awaits the NSW Government’s decision on any proposed merger with Kogarah.
Hurstville is forecasting a net operating surplus of $10 million for 2016-17 and is proceeding with a significant capital works program.
The council has outlined its priorities, plans and projects for the next four years in its draft Delivery Program 2016-20 just released along with its Operation Pan 2016-17.
Hurstville Mayor Vince Badalati said while the NSW Government is yet to make its final decision on whether a proposed merger between Hurstville and Kogarah Councils will go ahead, the council is planning for the future with a number of major long-term projects.
The council continues to forecast surplus budgets for current and future years.
In the 2016/2017 financial year, Council is projected to achieve a net operating surplus of almost $10 million and a $4 million surplus before grants and contributions provided for capital purposes. The council will also continue to implement its significant capital works program.
The council’s Delivery Program 2016-2020 and Operational Plan 2016-2016 contains many long-term projects.
Highlights include: the development of Central Plaza by providing the community open space which will enhance the amenity and the local economy within the CBD;
the commencement of environmental improvement works at Butler Reserve including the construction of a rain garden and;
the continuation of the council’s stormwater drainage upgrade program to improve stormwater assets throughout the local government area.
Hurstville Council acting general manager Laurie O’Connor said some of the key initiatives that the council will deliver over the next year include the continuation of the masterplan and planning proposal for the redevelopment of the Civic Precinct and the review of the Hurstville Local Environment Plan (HLEP) 2012.
The council will also commence works as part of the Penshurst Park Plan of Management that will see the construction of a new youth facility, extension of the Hurstville Aquatic Leisure Centre, an indoor cricket centre, a synthetic football field and new amenity and recreation facilities.
He said the council is nearing completion of the Forest Road Streetscape Project Stage One.
The multi-million dollar project has included new paving on public footpaths, new street lighting, replacement of street trees along with street furniture and additional shade facilities in Memorial Square.
Cr Badalati said the documents outline the strategic focus for the council over the next four years and provide an overview of our services and projects will be delivered.
He encouraged everyone to review the documents.
A copy of the draft plan can be downloaded from the council's website www.hurstville.nsw.gov.au, or can be reviewed at the Civic Centre, MacMahon Street, Hurstville; Hurstville City Library and Penshurst Branch Library.
The program and plan will be on public exhibition until May 20.