Municipal budget opens for comment

THE City of Greater Bendigo’s proposed budget for 2022/23 is out for public review.

The draft financial plan includes millions of dollars for infrastructure and recreational facility upgrades.

Rates will increase by 1.75 per cent, in line with a state State Government policy the caps the amount municipalities can raise the tax.

“As in previous years, council has not applied for a variation to the rate cap and will absorb increasing costs,” City mayor Andrea Metcalf said.

“Forecast inflation and increased construction costs are significantly higher than the rate cap amount, and this limits revenue available to fund new projects and initiatives.”

An $18 increase is also set for general waste fees on a 140-litre bin, which Cr Metcalf said reflects the costs of landfill fees levied by the Environment Protection Authority.

Recreation facilities and play spaces are a big focus in the budget, with $1.5 million to go towards a new Lake Weeroona play space, $1.8 million for the next stage of the Ewing Park project and $1.5 million adding to the City’s contribution for the Mercy Junortoun Joint Use Sports Precinct.

Money will also flow to the redevelopment of the Municipal Baths, the Strathfieldsaye Community Hub and the Tom Flood Centre.

Improvements will be made to Brennan Park Swimming Pool in Flora Hill, with a change room upgrade and accessible paths included in the budget.

The City has committed to improving conditions of roads, bridges and footpaths with the budget including $14 million for the renewal and reconstruction of sealed and unsealed roads.

Axedale-Kimbolton Road is set for a $1.5 million renewal and $2.8 million has been set for drainage works.

“The City is responsible for nearly 3000 kilometres of roads across Greater Bendigo, valued at more than $550 million,” Cr Metcalf said.

“We also look after more than 300 bridges, almost 900 kilometres of footpaths and more than 1000 kilometres of underground drains.”

The City has also announced a $1.5 million footpath program in response to more people walking and cycling throughout the region during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The budget includes money for environmental measures and projects, and Cr Metcalf said they will contribute towards the goal of net zero emissions from City operations by 2030.

All City-run facilities will receive an energy and water tracking system, air and temperature management systems will be deployed at Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre, and $420,000 will go towards more efficient lighting improvements.

Cr Metcalf said the budget was put together with more community consultation than previous budgets and encouraged people to have their say on it by 5pm on Monday, 16 May via letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au.