Wodonga residents have been invited to help build the city’s budget in a special ‘have your say’ opportunity that will gather community priorities for the upcoming financial year.
Mayor Kev Poulton said the conversation was starting earlier in the year for the first time so the community could help to allocate the money that will shape the city’s 2022-2023 budget.
“We’ll then use that 'dollars and sense' feedback to help build a draft budget and then we’ll take that draft document back to the community for further feedback,” he said.
Cr Poulton said the budget was one of council’s most important documents because it outlined how services and programs would be delivered to the community over the next year.
“As with any household budget, there are essentials, such as bread and milk, and there are constraints. Unfortunately, we can’t buy everything we want,” he said.
“So let’s work together and focus on a plan guided by the community’s priorities.
“The question we’re asking is, if the budget was $100, how would you spend that money?”
People are asked to use a budget allocation tool to show how they would use that $100 on maintaining and improving the city.
Community members can have their say at makewodongayours.com.au, or those preferring to share their thoughts face-to-face can attend one of several pop-up consultations to be held across the city.
“Ways to share your thoughts include the budget allocator and we urge those going online to use our interactive map to show their spending priorities, and we’re also keen for community organisations to make a submission,” Cr Poulton said.
“Alternatively, those who want to use a paper version or need assistance can drop into our Hovell St offices or call us on (02) 6022 9300.”
Deputy Mayor Cr Graeme Simpfendorfer said all of the councillors encouraged as many people as possible to have their say.
“This is a great opportunity for people to shape a document that affects everyone who lives and works in Wodonga,” Cr Simpfendorfer said.
“By having their say, individuals and groups can help to design and deliver the services and facilities our growing community needs.”
Face-to-face community consultation details below:
Hyphen Library Gallery (courtyard out the front)
Friday, February 25, 10am to 12pm
Killara
Riverside Blvd near Piccolo Pod, Friday March 4, 8am to 10am
Albury Wodonga Farmers Market
Saturday, February 12, 8am to 12pm
Belvoir Park Community Wood-fired Oven
Sunday, February 13, 11am to 2pm
Mann Central Shopping Centre
Thursday, February 17, 12pm to 2pm
Baranduda Community Centre
Tuesday, March 1, 3.30pm to 5.30pm