Council staff reject increased tree budget
Central Coast Council staff have rejected a submission to increase its budget for tree planting.
In dismissing the request, they have failed to reveal the amount within the operational budget for the coming year or give a commitment to a "level of service".
Last year, Administrator Mr Rik Hart revealed the tree budget for the whole region was just $45,000 out of an operational budget of around $700 million.
The draft budget is recommended for approval tomorrow night, Tuesday, June 25.
The proposed capital works program of an additional $300 million contains a $200,000 project for planting memorial trees at cemeteries, but no other tree planting project.
Responding to a submission calling for an increased tree planting budget, Council staff commented: "Tree planting allocation is made to replace dead or damaged trees in front of residents' houses if requested and for new trees in front of residents' houses when requested by the home owners.
"While this funding may not meet the wants of all residents, it is prioritised to meet the highest priorities."
SOURCE:
Central Coast Council agenda 2.3, 25 Jun 2024