20/21 Council budget invests in Yarraman
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Toowoomba Regional Council has this week adopted the 2020/21 budget with projects earmarked for Yarraman and surrounding districts. The projects form part of a $215 million capital works budget, which this year includes a $50 million Pandemic Response Investment.
Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said Council's $567 million financial plan would maintain and upgrade existing services and facilities while planning for a brighter future.
"We have a responsibility to plan for maintenance and upgrades to our existing infrastructure to guarantee the long-term viability of essential services to residents.
"The program will build on our earlier economic stimulus packages and is designed to help the community recover as Coronavirus lockdown restrictions continue to ease.
"The Coronavirus pandemic forced Council to reshape our budget plans to focus sharply on how we can directly support communities across our Region. Fortunately, Council's solid financial footing has allowed us to provide an operating budget of $352 million and develop a $215 million capital program.
"This includes a $165 million regular 12-month calendar of capital works. In addition Council has dedicated $50 million to a Pandemic Response Investment program with accelerated projects to stimulate economic activity across the Toowoomba Region.
"Stimulating local employment throughout our Region is one of the most constructive and immediate ways Council can help revive and sustain our regional economy.
"Council is committed to providing improved accessibility for our Region's pools. Yarraman Pool will this year benefit from $415,000 that will fund new change rooms and a new ramp.
"Throughout the Region, Council has several landfill sites nearing capacity. This year Council has set aside $420,000 for the upgrade of the Yarraman landfill to a transfer station.
"The Play Facilities Renewal Program provides for the replacement, relocation and renewal or removal of existing park equipment including softfall and shade structures. This year Barry Cunning Park in Yarraman will receive safety improvement works and renewal as part of the region-wide program.
"Council recognises water is a limited resource, and in this budget has focused on refining its practices where possible.
"This year Council will begin testing its Smart Water Meter Program. Through smart meter technology, residents will be able to monitor their water usage and identify leaks which will lead to savings.
"Yarraman and district will also benefit from region-wide projects. including:
Regional Rehabilitation Program $15 million Regional Reseal Program $8 million Regional Resheet Program $6.17 million Asphalt Renewal Program $3.89 million Stormwater Drainage Renewal Program $500,000 Footpath Renewal $1.45 million Community Grants Program $740,000"Council's capital works program is an important investment in the essential services we provide for the community.
"The additional $50 million to the capital works program for the Pandemic Response Investment Program follows Council's initiative to enhance our Procurement Policy and offer local firms the best chance to do business with us."
For full details of the 2020/21 Budget, please visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/budget