By Bonny Burrows
Baw Baw Shire residents can expect a two per cent rate increase and a $33.3 million investment in capital works in the upcoming financial year, council’s draft budget reveals.
The draft financial document is available for public viewing, and Baw Baw Shire Council is seeking community input of where residents would like to see local investment.
The document highlights a focus on maintaining service levels at the current level, with an aim to use fewer resources through innovation.
“The major challenges have been to meet the needs of the growing population of the shire, improve council’s overall financial position, while keeping rate rises as affordable as possible,” the draft document stated.
With an expected $94.4 million income, council has proposed to spend $71.1 million, leaving a surplus of $23.3 million.
Residents can look forward to a $10.1 million investment in roads as well as no increases to waste service charges.
Projects allocated chunks of local government funding include the West Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, the development of Western Park Oval and bridge and drainage works.
The low rate increase, the council said, was achieved through “fiscal management” of the organisation.
Despite this, council admitted there would still be challenges ahead.
“From the CEO and the executive team to every member of staff, we have maintained our focus predominately on delivering the activities and services that are vital for our community,” the council said in its draft document.
“There have been some tough decisions made – and there will inevitably be more to come.”
Mayor Joe Gauci said the council had spent months “agonising over how to balance the wants and needs of the community with the funds available”, and now it was the public’s turn to have their say.
“I would encourage all residents to take the time to review the budget, including the fees and charges, to see what is proposed,” Cr Gauci said.
The document is open for consultation until 5pm, Friday 26 May.
To view the draft document and learn how to make a written submission, visit bawbawshire.vic.gov.au
