Surf Coast Shire Council has set its strategies and outcomes for the next four years through its new council plan.
Council Plan 2025-2029, incorporating the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, was adopted by council during its September 23 meeting, with seven councillors voting for, and two against, the motion.
Councillor Libby Stapleton said the plan reflected Surf Coast’s history, future, culture, and environment, along with the council’s financial perimeters for its potential and long-term sustainability.
“The council plan isn’t just a 20-page document that sits in someone’s bottom drawer, it’s a live working document that council relies on,” she said.
“It provides focus, helps us to track progress on key priorities, and enables the community to see where council is investing its time and resources.
“Council operations and infrastructure are adapting to the impacts of extreme weather events, and we recognise the Traditional Owner approach to caring for Country.
“We foster an increase in long-term affordable housing for key workers in coastal townships, along with slow and regenerative tourism that is respectful of the environment and values communities.”
The plan follows the five themes: assets and infrastructure, climate and environmental leadership, community wellbeing, high performing council, and sustainable communities.
Cr Joel Grist said he disagreed with aspects of the plan but accepted the council’s overall decision and would continue to “advocate for a return to basics”.
“My focus will be on ensuring the plan delivers tangible outcomes that residents can see and rely upon, rather than broad, unfunded aspirations,” he said.
“This plan, while well intentioned, attempts to tackle far too many issues, many of which are beyond the scope of local government and our legislated responsibilities.
“Trying to be everything to everyone risks stretching resources too thin, leaving essential services underfunded and making promises the council cannot reliably deliver.
“Residents expect us to get basics right; roads, footpaths, drainage, waste management and local facilities, before we pursue broader agendas that fall outside our direct control.”
Council also adopted its financial plan (7-2) and asset plan (8-1), which will be in effect for the next 10 years.
