The draft 2018-2019 operational plan, which included the annual budget, a proposed schedule of fees and charges as well as a revenue policy statement was put on public display in May and June.

At the meeting held on Wednesday, June 27, a motion was put forward to adopt the draft 2018-2021 Delivery Program and 2018-2019 Operational Plan (including the Statement of Revenue Policy, Budget and Fees and Charges Schedule), incorporating the proposed changes and recommendations. Also part of the recommendation was to have the Long Term Financial Plan 2018-2028 noted.

This was moved by Cr Peter Epov and seconded by Cr David Keegan.

All councilors present voted for the motion with a few adjustments, namely: there be an amendment to change the Working Coal Mining Rate in the dollar to .032013; to defer the noting of the Long Term Financial Plan 2018-2028 until the next meeting; and a report be prepared to address issues raised by the Coomba Park Progress Association.

So what does all this mean for Gloucester?

In short, the Gloucester tip fee of $92.40 in rates notices will be replaced with a charge of $44.15, there will be no dry fee charge at the Gloucester swimming pool and a three month pass for the pool for pensioners and under 12s for a cost of  $115 will be available.

Deputy mayor Katheryn Smith took to social media shortly after the meeting to let the Gloucester community know the good news. 

Councilors absent were Cr Len Roberts and Cr Claire Pontin.