When it comes to tough public scrutiny and criticism government, at all levels, is at the forefront.
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How they manage funds, where they spend money, whether or not they listen to community input – it all attracts public interest and opinion.
Local Government is no exception to such scrutiny. But if we are to pass criticism, then we first need to engage in the topic at hand.
Such an opportunity is now upon us in the Wingecarribee Shire. The shire’s 2018/19 draft budget is now on exhibition until May 24.
Council’s chief financial officer Richard Mooney said $219 million would be spent over the next four years on a range of capital works. It’s proposed the cash expenditure budget for 2018/19 will be $130,673,000, which is an increase of 11.9 per cent on the cash expenditure budget for the 2017/18 financial year.
A civic centre and Bowral Memorial Hall refurbishment, spending on roads, bridges and footpaths across the shire, cemetery improvements, sewerage treatment plant upgrades and infrastructure renewal and improvement projects are all included in the draft budget.
No doubt some projects will be welcome news to the public, but there will also be features of this draft that don’t hit the spot for some people. The idea of putting the draft on display is to guage the opinion of the public before details are locked in.
If you have concerns about how funds are spent, or projects that may or may not be included in the final budget, then now is the time to make your voice heard.
It is one thing to criticise the powers-that-be for the decisions they make, but if you don’t formally share your thoughts, in a written submission when the opportunity arises, then your concerns carry little weight.
The elected members of council involved in the final decision process are meant to be the voice of the general public, although they are often criticised for not listening to the public.
The validity of such criticism carries little weight unless we speak out about what we believe matters. It carries little weight if we make a passing comment or become just one of the voices in the crowd.
If you want to be heard, make the effort to take a closer look at the draft budget. If it features something that concerns you, make a written submission. Make sure your voice doesn’t fall on deaf ears.
