Council has adopted its 2023-24 budget (including fees and charges) with investment in community halls, capital works projects and support for community groups some of the key components.
Mayor Chris Potter said the budget had been developed with acknowledgement of current financial challenges, seeking financial improvements and maintaining delivery of projects and services.
“Councillors and officers have worked together over many months to deliver a responsible budget, making savings where we can, but not to the detriment of our key services.
“The 2023-24 Budget includes an average rate increase of 3.5 per cent, in line with the State Government Fair Go Rates System.
“The annual rate increase is essential to Council supporting the community, providing essential services, maintaining assets and delivering projects,” he said.
Cr Potter said this budget invests $9.7 million toward capital works projects of which over $8 million is directed to the renewal of existing assets to ensure our assets continue to support economic prosperity and healthy connected communities.
“Our halls are a vitally important part of our small towns and communities providing a space for groups and individuals to meet, play, exercise and socialise. This budget includes a commitment of more than $940,000 toward refreshing our community halls and play spaces to support that.
“Council continues to support the community through various initiatives such as the Community Grants Program, which is a great example of Council and community working together,” he said.
“At the June meeting, $311,500 was allocated to awarding over 70 community projects and events which enables community organisations, clubs, event organisers and businesses to go ahead with important local projects.”
Key Projects in the 2023-24 budget include:
– Bridge Renewal Program $244,000
– Building Renewal Program $1 million
– Forrest Caravan Park Wastewater system $450,000
– Kennett River wetland sediment removal $50,000
– Small Halls Renewal Program $190,000
– Footpath and pedestrian connections $182,000
– Birregurra playspace redevelopment $275,000
– Donaldson’s reserve playspace redevelopment $100,000
– Elliminyt tennis court resurfacing and fence repair $250,000
– Public street litter bin replacement program $120,000
– Paradise Picnic Reserve facility improvement $50,000
– Street Planting Program 2023-24 $60,000
– Road Reseal Renewal Program $1 million
– Unsealed Road Resheeting Program $1 million
