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Budget Increase to Fund New WorksBaw Baw Shire Council has recommended a draft budget that will mean an increase of less than one dollar a week for most residents. By Baw Baw Shire Council - 10th June 2005 - Back to News "This small increase will fund a much needed expansion in road upgrades, car parking expansion, improved recreation and other improved facilities across the Shire," said Shire Mayor, Cr Ruth McDonald.
Cr McDonald said Council had an obligation to carry out a range of works that would prevent major costs in the years to come.
"We have had record low rates for a number of years, but his has been at the cost of lower expenditure on infrastructure.
"With a growing population, Baw Baw now needs to invest in improved roadworks, footpaths, and parking as well as a range of improved facilities," said Cr McDonald.
The draft budget will be open for public comment for the next three weeks.
Chief Executive Officer Glenn Patterson said the total increase in rates and charges would be 7.6%, about the midrange of rate increases in all Victorian municipalities.
"We have, however, taken the opportunity this year to improve the balance in our rating system, which has altered in recent years due to property price variations in different sectors," said Mr Patterson.
"This means that 87% of rate payers will actually pay only a 5.8% increase, while commercial, industrial and vacant land ratepayers would pay more. Most people will pay an increase of less than $50 a year," said Mr Patterson.
"The highest increase was in the Commercial area, but even here the rate increase would only be about $3 a week for most commercial landholders."
Mr Patterson said extra expenditure will particularly go into the area of traffic management and car parking.
"Surveys have shown this is a particular concern for residents and we are pleased to respond.
"Almost one million dollars has been allowed for car parking upgrades across the Shire, while $6.8 million will be spent relieving traffic congestion and on road upgrades," said Mr Patterson.
The new Council budget also caters for a number of new projects in the Shire’s smaller communities.
Rawson, Walhalla, Jindivick, Rokeby, Longwary, Ellinbank and Thorpdale will get new or upgraded facilities. Darnum will receive improved lighting and footpaths, while Neerim South will receive a contribution to the Gymnasium.
"There are many other works planned for the smaller communities. Baw Baw Shire Council strongly believes in improving services and facilities across the whole Shire," said Mr Patterson.
"Facilities, roads and community development will all be improved."
Cr McDonald said that the business community will also receive improved services.
"We have thriving local economy and must act to protect this," said Cr McDonald.
"Councillors are committed to business development in the Shire and have committed additional funding business development and marketing programs.
"This is in addition to improvements to the commercials centres of our towns," said Cr McDonald.
Council has also increased the general garbage charge by eight dollars per year.
"We believe that this budget represents a good balance for ratepayers," said Cr McDonald.
"While it is a small dollar increase now, the improvements in Council infrastructure and facilities is much needed and will prevent large costs later on."
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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