Manningham Council is offering community members the exciting opportunity to pitch their Budget ideas to Councillors.
Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said the new stage of consultation was inspired by an unprecedented response to Council’s initial Budget survey which was open over summer.
“It was fantastic to hear from more than 650 community members about how they would like the Council Budget spent across the next financial year,” Cr Lange said.
The results are in, with locals reporting the following top six priorities for Council spending (in order):
- Sport (courts, ovals, fields and pavilions)
- Parks, reserves and other open spaces
- Roads and traffic and parking management
- Maintenance and cleaning of public spaces
- Footpaths, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure
- Recycling and waste management
“We’re really keen to hear more about why you’re so passionate about these topics and your ideas for projects and services you would like to see delivered, in these areas, now and in the future.
“If you would like to pitch, please complete an expression of interest form on our Your Say Manningham website before Monday 4 March,” Cr Lange added.
Shortlisted in-person submitters will have three minutes each to present to Councillors at a meeting at the Manningham Function Centre on the evening of Monday 18 March.
Council will shortlist a maximum of six pitches from each of the six priority areas above to be presented and are looking for:
- A range of ideas on diverse topics
- Pitches from individuals and organisations
- Ideas from across Manningham suburbs
- Ideas which will benefit our community
Pitching in person is optional and Councillors will still consider submissions from people who choose not to present or aren’t shortlisted.
“Applications are also open for our Community Grants Program so it may be worth considering whether your community group’s project is more suitable for funding through a community development, arts or festivals and events grant,” Cr Lange said.
The final 2024-25 Budget and 10 Year Financial Plan will be considered for endorsement by Council at its meeting on Tuesday 25 June 2024.
To express your interest in pitching or to learn more, visit Your Say Manningham.
