Council sets rates and adopts key planning documents at June meeting
Published on 19 June 2025
This month’s Council meeting was filled with rigorous discussion on some big issues and decisions, which are outlined below.
Councillors also approved a design and construct tender for the Verge Street Pavillion and Netball Amenities Block. It was noted that Councillors have viewed the draft designs and are impressed by the work done by staff in consultation with stakeholders. Council looks forward to releasing the design once finalised with the contractor.
Councillors also noted the assistance available to property owners who have been flood impacted or are experiencing financial hardship. These residents may be eligible for revised payment arrangements for rates payments by contacting Council.
Mayoral Minute – May 2025 Floods
The Mayor acknowledged the extraordinary efforts of emergency service agencies in response to the recent flood crisis and the delivery of immediate support to affected community members. The Kempsey Shire Council leadership team and staff were also commended for their tireless work and coordination throughout the emergency.
Heartfelt thanks were extended to community members, small businesses, volunteers and local groups who supported one another during this time, demonstrating the strength and resilience of our community.
An urgent call was made to the Albanese and Minns Government to activate Category D disaster funding, stressing that families, farmers and small businesses cannot rebuild alone and require immediate financial assistance.
Councillors spoke to the widespread devastation across the region and emphatically supported the Mayor’s praise for the response and recovery effort and call for further funding. They also acknowledged the enormous personal efforts of the Mayor, who has undertaken over 50 media interviews, hosted ministerial visits and led extensive advocacy on behalf of the community.
Setting Rates and Charges for 2025/26
Councillors voted 5–4 in favour of adopting the proposed 2025/26 rates increase of 7.5% and set other charges, including waste, water and stormwater. This rates increase is half of the approved special rate variation for the next year.
Councillor Bain, in moving the motion, acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasised its necessity. Councillor Matchett and Councillor Lawrence also supported the motion, highlighting the challenge of balancing the budget while striving for long-term financial sustainability. The Mayor reinforced this sentiment, stating that the decision was grounded in responsibility and a commitment to securing essential infrastructure and services for both current and future generations. She noted that delaying action would only worsen the situation, and that the special rate variation was not arbitrary but independently assessed and approved as necessary to support Council’s financial sustainability.
Councillors Wyatt, Paix, Selby and Coburn opposed the rate increase, citing concerns about affordability, especially in light of recent natural disasters. They expressed a desire to explore further cost-saving measures before increasing the financial burden on residents.
While acknowledging these concerns, the Mayor and supporting Councillors stressed that the community’s demand for reliable services is growing, and the increase is not about collecting more money, but about addressing critical services and infrastructure needs that underpin a healthy, liveable community.
Integrated Planning and Reporting documents
Following a period of public exhibition of the draft documents, Councillors adopted the suite of new Integrated Planning and Reporting documents:
- Delivery Program 2025-2029
- Workforce Management Plan 2025-2029
- Strategic Asset Management Plan 2025-2035
- Long Term Financial Plan 2025-2035
- Operational Plan 2025-26
- Revenue Policy 2025-26
- Rates Maps 2025-26
- Fees and Charges 2025-26
Some Councillors noted disappointment in the amount of community feedback on the documents and flagged a desire to work with staff on options to engage differently with the community.
Councillors engaged in frank discussion around Council’s challenging financial position, the volume of infrastructure work required and the significant uncertainty faced. There was significant concern around the flood impact on the 2025/26 budget. New CEO, Andrew Meddle noted legislation requires Council to adopt a budget now, using the best information available, but that there will be opportunities to review and update the budget.
It was agreed that in coming months, Councillors will work with senior staff to review the adopted budget to consider and potentially prioritise the capital works program which includes flood recovery works still underway from 2021, new works required because of the May 2025 flood and the significant water and sewer program. There was a commitment to look at ways of increasing capacity (within Council and partnering with contractors, preferably local) to accelerate our recovery.
All this work will ensure Councillors receive a comprehensive update and can make necessary decisions as part of the first quarterly budget review in November 2025.
You can view the June 2025 business papers at Council meeting agendas & minutes.
A recording of the meeting is available on Council's YouTube page .