Yes! Goodwood Oval is in Council’s budget deliberations. Likewise, Council’s long-term financial plan (LTFP).

I am told that the news that Goodwood Oval is in Council’s budget deliberations has “leaked” out. The claim is that we have decided to proceed with projects without consulting the community. This suggests that the Council is not being transparent. That is what many believe, and I understand that.

While the information passed around the community is based on truth, we have not endorsed any project. This will not happen without first seeking the input of our community. That said, projects that may become a part of the final redevelopment of the Oval precinct have not been developed to the point that warrants public consultation.

What we have endorsed is to provide in-principle support to pursue funding opportunities for the redevelopment of Goodwood Oval.

It is my expectation that we would be consulting, when we have something to consult on, with our community. The Goodwood Oval precinct is community land. We are legislatively required to consult on any project that changes the precinct.

As with numerous projects we have budgeted for, without substantial external funding, nothing will occur. While we understand we may have to contribute some funding, we have no intention of proceeding with any project without substantial external funding. Without knowledge, therefore, of substantial external funding, there is no point engaging in costly consultation.

For all that, the current budget and the LTFP must include something of a monetary nature in the event that something does eventuate.

Council often considers the inclusion in the budgetary process of projects that have not yet been sanctioned by Council. Projects that, for whatever reason, do not get final approval in the chamber. The Goodwood Oval clubrooms a case in point, as was the Millswood Croquet Clubrooms.

Further Information awaits

Stay tuned for further information on this blog site. Check Council’s website also later this week with information prepared by our administration.