Council’s Draft Budget out for community feedback

Council’s Draft Budget out for community feedback

Published on 15 April 2021

Community members are encouraged to provide feedback on Council’s 2021/22 Draft Annual Budget and key documents.

The $90.9 million budget will support over 100 services, deliver new projects and maintain community infrastructure from roads to recreation facilities.

New and upgraded infrastructure remains a priority for Council, with $38.92 million proposed for capital works, including projects that may be carried over from last year.

Of the $38.92 million in capital funding required, $16.46 million will come from Council operations, $15.56 million from capital grants and $3.05 million of contributions from developers, with the balance funded by other contributions and new borrowings.

Key infrastructure projects for the year ahead include:

$6.0 million for Warragul Indoor Stadium – Stage 1  $2.25 million for the Rokeby to Noojee Trail project $2.0 million for the Multi Use Pavilion at Bellbird Park, Drouin $1.7 million for the completion of the Trafalgar Recreation Reserve Multi Use Pavilion $1.53 million for the accelerated footpath program

Some projects will rely on the availability of grant funding to be delivered.

Operating expenses are expected to increase by 3.8 per cent from the year before as Council responds to community growth. This includes creating necessary new employee positions to better meet service delivery requirements.

The rate rise has been capped at 1.5 per cent, in line with the Victorian Government’s Fair Go Rates System.

Alongside the Draft 2020/21 Annual Budget, other key documents available for community feedback include the annual review of the Long Term Infrastructure Plan and Revenue and Rating Plan.

The draft 2021/22 Annual Budget and key documents were presented to Council at last night’s Council meeting and were unanimously endorsed for public exhibition by Councillors. The key documents have been prepared in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020.

All community members are invited to make a submission on the draft Annual Budget and key documents. Submissions can be made in two ways; online via Council’s website, or in writing submitted by email to [email protected] or post.

Full details are available at www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/Haveyoursay    

All submissions must be submitted by close of business on Thursday 13 May 2021.

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Danny Goss

“The draft budget features a $38.92 investment in crucial infrastructure projects, which will be delivered across all corners of our municipality. It also considers all aspects of funding to deliver essential community services – from road maintenance, waste management and public health services to libraries, maternal and child health and recreation.

“Council is working hard to manage the challenges of rapid residential growth while maintaining liveability. We will continue to call on the State and Federal Governments for support to ensure we can deliver the facilities and services our community deserves.”

Quotes attributable to Deputy Mayor Cr Michael Leaney

“Council is committed to providing opportunities for all residents to be part of the decision-making process, with the draft budget being one of the most significant items of the year. We encourage our community members to read about all the numerous projects and services that Council is planning in the next year and share their feedback. We also encourage you to make a submission about any project or service that you would like to see happen even if it is not included within the budget so council can consider your needs and ensure it is delivering for everyone in all areas of the shire.”