General News
20 June, 2024
Mount Alexander adopts $48m budget
The Mount Alexander Shire Council has adopted a $47.99 million budget for the year ahead, following community consultation and feedback. Highlights from the budget include flood protection initiatives, a public art installation, and various...
The Mount Alexander Shire Council has adopted a $47.99 million budget for the year ahead, following community consultation and feedback.
Highlights from the budget include flood protection initiatives, a public art installation, and various recreation projects.
Other features include $10.59 million in capital works to improve infrastructure such as roads, bridges, drains, and footpaths, as well as strong investment in community facilities.
Council is responsible for delivering more than 100 services to the community, including family and children’s services, youth programs, aged and disability care, business and economic development, community planning and development, waste management, library services, and emergency management.
Mayor Matthew Driscoll said council is proud to deliver a budget that was developed with significant community input.
“Community consultation is a big part of the budget process and I’m pleased that we heard from so many residents about what our community wants and needs,” he said.
“Your valuable comments and input played a big part in helping to shape the budget.
“Roads, recreation, parks and gardens, and arts and culture were highlighted as important focus areas.
“There was feedback about protecting the shire’s heritage, and so we’ve incorporated initiatives to further support heritage studies.
“We know that affordable housing is very important and necessary for our shire, and so we’re continuing our work in that area over the next 12 months.
“I’m proud too that we’re increasing our expenditure in the next year on assessing and planning services for older people and people with disabilities, to help them live independently.”
Community feedback and engagement on the draft budget resulted in funding allocations to support projects from local organisations such as Castlemaine Community House, Metcalfe Community Association, and Harcourt Valley Heritage & Tourist Centre Inc.
The budget includes an increase to average rates income of 2.75 percent, in line with the rate cap set by the Victorian Government. Waste charges have been increased by 2.75 percent as well, to reflect the rising costs of waste management.
“With the cost of materials and services ever-increasing, and with more responsibilities and expectations from various levels of government and the community, the reality is that we don’t have enough funds to do the work that everyone would like us to,” Mayor Driscoll said.
“It also means there are hard decisions to be made when developing the budget. These are decisions that we have discussed and thought about at length.
“With that said, I’m confident that we have a balanced and fair proposed budget, and I’m proud to put it forward to the community.
“I’m really pleased that we’re able to put funds towards so many things that will positively impact our entire community.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to our residents. Your engagement and input helped us make a thoughtful and well-rounded budget.”