The 2020-21 Operational Plan was adopted by council on 24 June 2020. View the adopted Plan here.
The Draft 2020-21 Operational Plan forms part of Council's Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. It outlines Council's activities and key initiatives to implement the Delivery Program 2017-2021 based on the community’s long-term strategic plan, Cessnock 2027.(PDF, 1MB)
The Draft Operational Plan also incorporates the 2020-21 draft budget, capital works program, revenue policy and fees and charges.
This is the final Operational Plan to deliver the objectives and plans identified in the four year 2017-21 Delivery Program.
Council is proposing an ambitious program of capital works that will exceed the original budget proposed for the fourth year of the Delivery Program 2017-2021. These works will help to support the local economy and employment.
The highlights from the proposed $30 million capital works program, including $11.69 million of grant funding are:
- Bridges Hill Park, Cessnock – Playground Upgrade ($851,018) & Improve Walking Path Access from CBD ($198,000)
- Kurri Kurri Commercial Centre Upgrade ($3,717,900)
- Hunter Valley Wine Country Tourist Signage ($1,948,876)
- Yango Creek, Wollombi – Replace Bridge over Wollombi Brook ($1,176,500)
- Gingers Lane, Weston – Upgrade Road Stage 3 ($2,593,485)
- Hart Road, Gingers Lane, Government Road, Loxford – Replace Roundabout ($2,004,000)
We have built-in the forecast impact of the Coronavirus (COVID 19) pandemic in the draft Plan.
The impact has been estimated based on the currently understood positions of the Federal and NSW State governments and is projected to be a $717,833 cash deficit and a $744,699 operating loss before capital grants and contributions.
While the draft budget is showing a deficit, including assumptions of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic, we are working towards achieving a balanced budget.
The Draft 2020-21 Operational Plan can also be viewed in sections:
Assistance to Ratepayers
Residents experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic can seek an extension on their fourth rates instalment until 31 August 2020 interest free.
You must contact Council and enter into an arrangement on (02) 4993 4100. Our Customer Service team will take your details and our Rates team will call you back. Our team will endeavour to return calls by the next business day.
For more information, please read our Hardship Policy(PDF, 289KB) or visit our Paying your rates page.