Council Invites Community Feedback on Key Strategic Documents

Published on 29 April 2026

Leeton Shire Council has placed a suite of key strategic and financial documents on public exhibition following endorsement at its April Ordinary Meeting, with community feedback now invited.

The documents include the Draft 2025–2029 Delivery Program and 2026/27 Operational Plan, 2026/27 Budget and 2026/27 Revenue Policy (including Fees and Charges). Together, they outline the actions Council will take over the coming year to deliver on the Community Strategic Plan, Leeton On The Go Towards 2035, in a financially responsible and sustainable way.

Mayor Cr George Weston said Council has taken a disciplined approach in response to ongoing financial sustainability challenges.

“Council has focused on core responsibilities, essential services and the careful stewardship of community assets. All non-essential capital projects have been excluded from the Draft 2026/27 Operational Plan and Budget and instead moved to an aspirational scenario in the upcoming Long-Term Financial Plan,” Mayor Weston said.

“These non-essential projects include major repairs at the Whitton Museum and detailed design and development approval for implementing the Sports Precinct Masterplan and the holiday cabins at Gogeldrie Weir. We have also delayed the detailed design of social housing by a year.”

Agreed capital works for 2026/27 include road and infrastructure renewal, asset maintenance, and delivery of a new dog park. Provision has also been re-confirmed to progress enabling infrastructure for a potential affordable housing development at the former Brobenah Rd caravan site / dog park, subject to grant funding.

Mayor Weston added that Council is also considering longer-term financial sustainability measures.

“Council will consider pursuing a Special Variation in the first half of 2026/27, supported by independent expert Professor Joseph Drew. The Draft Long-Term Financial Plan and Strategic Asset Management Plan will be finalised mid-year and released for further community consultation then.”

Mayor Weston said collaboration remains central to Council’s approach.

“Council acknowledges the vital contribution of Councillors, staff, community groups and volunteers in delivering services across the Shire. We remain committed to supporting and strengthening these partnerships to maintain service excellence, as recently recognised by the AR Bluett Award, while continuing to improve and ensure long-term financial sustainability.”

The Draft documents are available on Council’s website and via the ‘Have Your Say’ portal, with hard copies also accessible at the Council Administration Office, Leeton Shire Library, Yanco Shop, and Whitton and Murrami Post Offices.

Community members can provide feedback online, by email, or in writing, with submissions closing at 5pm on Thursday, 28 May 2026.

A series of community consultation sessions will also be held across the Shire throughout May to support community input.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jackie Kruger
General Manager
T. 0417 256 092
E: jackiek@leeton.nsw.gov.au

Cr George Weston
Mayor
T. 0417 519 580
E: georgew@leeton.nsw.gov.au