Budget open for comment
ANorthern Grampians Shire Council 2017-18 Draft Budget is open for public comment.
The council formally adopted the draft, along with the 2017-2021 draft council plan and draft strategic resource plan after extensive discussion at a special meeting last week.
Mayor Tony Driscoll said the 201718 budget was subject to a number of financial restrictions, including State Government rate-capping measures and the Federal Government’s prior freeze on Federal Assistance Grants.
“This is a conservative budget, which has been impacted by a number of financial constraints,” he said.
“We are attempting to maintain our existing infrastructure and to continue to offer services as best we can in a tight fiscal environment.”
Among measures outlined in the 2017-18 budget document are plans to balance a $13.2-million capital works and projects program, with $4.5-million for council infrastructure maintenance, and a $2.9-million allocation for community and economic development services.
These include children’s services, aged care, recreation, leisure and libraries.
Other highlights include continued support of the Nectar Farms hydroponic project and a Halls Gap master plan, along with continued support of community events such as the Easter Stawell Gift, Grampians Grape Escape, Grampians Arts Trail and a wildflower festival, Festival of St Arnaud, St Arnaud Country Music Festival, Great Western Rodeo, Stawell Gold Cup, St Arnaud Cup, Great Western Cup, Halls Gap Cup and Run the Gap.
The draft council plan also
“We are attempting to maintain our existing infrastructure and to continue to offer services as best we can in a tight fiscal environment” – Tony Driscoll
illustrates plans for the future of rate increases to remain in line with rate-capping measures determined by Local Government minister Natalie Hutchins, while outlining major objectives for the next four years.
Both the draft budget and council plan are available to view online at www.ngshire.vic.gov.au/your-council/documents-available-for-public-inspection/council-publications.
Printed copies are available to view in person at Stawell Town Hall and St Arnaud customer service centre.
The documents will remain open for public comment for a required 28-day period, with submissions open until the close of business on June 22.