Phoebe Kitto, President of Douglas Chamber of Commerce, and Gerry Ireland, Chair, Douglas Inc. have a united and positive response to the recently announced Douglas Shire Council’s Annual Budget 2015 – 2016.

M’s Kitto praised Council for their “tight financial management and in particular the Operating Expenditure, which continues to remain under budget. 

In addition, the creation of around 100 jobs directly associated with the extended Road Repairs programme, and more than 130 indirect jobs, will have a major positive impact on businesses and the local economy throughout the Douglas Region.

The announcement of the forthcoming Douglas Business Forum will further strengthen the working relationship between Council and the Business Community”

Mr Ireland acknowledged the Economic Development and Economic Growth potential of Council’s Budget for the Region.

“Council is now committed to supporting economic growth and development in the context of their Annual Budget, and this is significant for the Douglas Region. The content, language, and presentation of this Annual Budget have raised the bar, and we commend Council for this positive move”.

Both the Douglas Chamber and Douglas Inc. are working closely in preparation for the Douglas Business Forum, with a focus on the medium to longer term planning requirements for the Region.

“Our aim will be to engage with Council and develop a Sustainable Douglas Regional Plan for the next 3 > 10 year period, that will benefit the entire Community” said Mr Ireland.