THE City of Greater Bendigo\u2019s proposed budget for 2022\/23 is out for public review.<\/p>\n
The draft financial plan includes millions of dollars for infrastructure and recreational facility upgrades.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs in previous years, council has not applied for a variation to the rate cap and will absorb increasing costs,\u201d City mayor Andrea Metcalf said.<\/p>\n
\u201cForecast inflation and increased construction costs are significantly higher than the rate cap amount, and this limits revenue available to fund new projects and initiatives.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s contribution for the Mercy Junortoun Joint Use Sports Precinct.<\/p>\n
Money will also flow to the redevelopment of the Municipal Baths, the Strathfieldsaye Community Hub and the Tom Flood Centre.<\/p>\n
Improvements will be made to Brennan Park Swimming Pool in Flora Hill, with a change room upgrade and accessible paths included in the budget.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Axedale-Kimbolton Road is set for a $1.5 million renewal and $2.8 million has been set for drainage works.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe City is responsible for nearly 3000 kilometres of roads across Greater Bendigo, valued at more than $550 million,\u201d Cr Metcalf said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe also look after more than 300 bridges, almost 900 kilometres of footpaths and more than 1000 kilometres of underground drains.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n