Conservative borough budget targets local priorities

THE Borough of Queenscliffe plans to scale down its capital works spend in the next financial year, in a “fiscally disciplined” budget which predicts four straight years of surplus without taking on new loans.

BOQ released its draft 2022-23 budget on Wednesday night alongside a long-term council plan to remain debt-free.

The borough proposed to pass on the maximum allowed rate increase of 1.75 per cent next financial year, to raise $8.1 million in revenue – which accounts for 74 per cent of its total operating revenue.

It expects a small surplus of $158,000 from its $12.7 million spending plan, with its bottom line to remain black through to 2025-26, when it predicts a $1.5 million profit.

It was predicted its grants revenue would fall to $2.3 million from $9.4 million in the current financial year, when it received funding boosts for the infrastructure projects and pandemic support.

BOQ planned a modest capital works spend for the next year of just $3.8 million – about two thirds of which comes from carryover of big-money projects due to finish in coming months, including the Queenscliffe Hub, Queenscliff Sport and Recreation Precinct development and Point Lonsdale Reserve upgrade.

The budget includes $350,000 for public toilet improvements, including a new block at Hobson Street and design funding for projects at Princes Park kiosk and Weeroona Parade.

It also delivers funding for energy efficient capital works and audit programs and to achieve Reconciliation Plan objectives alongside Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.

Mayor Ross Ebbels said the budget focussed on priorities identified through community consultation.

“From supporting community wellbeing, to protecting our environment, to promoting the borough’s rich heritage, this is a budget that delivers on some the key initiatives residents told us matter to them,” Cr Ebbels said.

“I want to thank everyone in our community who took part in consultation to develop the council plan – your ideas and advice have helped us create a budget that reflects your priorities.”

Council officers will present its draft budget to the community at an event at Queenscliff Town Hall, at 6.30pm on May 11.

Submissions are open until May 23.