The draft budget, out for public consultation from 15 May to 7 June, proposes an average 4.3% increase in general rate revenue, in line with CPI increases.
In recognition of the challenges facing rural businesses, an effective rate freeze will be in place for rural ratepayers for one year.
Mayor Bim Lange said the upcoming budget is focused on upgrading core infrastructure and building maintenance to future-proof these community assets.
“We’ve budgeted over $3.3 million to renew and upgrade roads, and we’re doubling our footpath budget over the next 10 years to address a backlog of works on the existing network,”
“This budget brings our total investment in transport, stormwater and footpath infrastructure to over $7.9 million to ensure our core infrastructure is fit-for-purpose and equitably distributed across the region.
“We’re also commencing a long-term plan to upgrade our public toilets, plus renewing community assets such as the pool decking at the Rex, Old Union Chapel flooring and a rebuild of Tanunda Kegel Club, so our community can continue to enjoy contemporary community facilities.
“We’re also looking ahead to the next stage of investment and funding opportunities, including repurposing Williamstown oval, a second oval at Stockwell and equestrian investment at Talunga Park in Mount Pleasant.”
Other highlights of the budget include:
- $1.8m to maintain roads, bridges, footpaths, kerbs, road vegetation and trees
- Sealing of Fife Street, Angaston and continued sealing of Keyneton Road
- $23.5m in project funding for The Big Project works including completing Nuriootpa soccer precinct, Barossa Park Project at Lyndoch Recreation Park and initial work on the Barossa Creative Industries Centre
- $2.2m for wastewater upgrades, mainly to cater for growth in Nuriootpa
- Subject to funding, support for lighting upgrades at Nuriootpa oval
- Additional fencing at Tanunda Inclusion Playground and over $100,000 for playground upgrades across the district
Mayor Lange said Council had bucked the trend of many Councils proposing significant rate increases.
“We know our community is feeling the pinch, which is why this budget balances the needs of the community while delivering savings and efficiencies, as well as new investment,” Mayor Lange said.
