Focus on sustainability and pandemic

THE City of Greater Geelong provided 440 youth programs online during COVID-19 lockdowns and delivered 46,000 meals to residents last financial year according to its latest annual report.

The report, which details initiatives and cost of pandemic support for community and businesses during 2020-21, is now available to the public.

Support included waivers on a range of permit fees; special COVID-19 assistance grants and support programs; fast-tracking permit applications; supporting the expansion and activation of outdoor dining areas; establishing the Arts Industry Commission; and removing the Central Geelong Special Rate.

While responding to the impacts of the pandemic, the council also continued its normal day-to-day services and programs, including meal deliveries, supported by volunteers.

City staff also swept 5000 kilometres of streets, processed 27,141 tonnes of garden organics into compost, delivered 46,000 meals to residents, maintained 154,483 street and park trees and welcomed 210,207 visitors to city-managed leisure centres and outdoor pools.

In a joint message regarding the annual report’s release, mayor Stephanie Asher and chief executive officer Martin Cutter said the strong strategic focus on sustainability was a key feature of 2020-21.

“Through a series of new initiatives, the council has entrenched environmental, financial and social sustainability as the core focus of everything we do – something that will be especially important as we tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by population growth,” they said.

“Our progress has included the adoption of a landmark Sustainability Framework and supporting action plan, and the creation of a Sustainability Advisory Committee featuring top local experts.

“With the committee’s input, we have set a range of ambitious sustainability targets that will drive our performance across all operational areas for at least the next 10 years.”

The city leaders said the council also recognised its responsibility to direct significant attention and resources towards relief and recovery initiatives, rather than targeting an operating surplus.

“While this has largely contributed to an operating deficit of $9.4 million for the financial year, it was appropriate and really the only course of action,” they said.

The annual report also includes the city’s Annual Financial Statement, detailing a $121.2 million capital works program to provide new facilities such as sporting fields and pavilions, childcare centres, playgrounds and community halls.

The full report, which was discussed at this week’s council meeting, can be viewed on the City of Greater Geelong website.