City rubbish to be dumped in Drysdale

ROOM for eight years of Geelong’s rubbish will be created at the Drysdale tip as council borrows $3.28 million to support the move.

The money is part of a $12.1 million loan council hope to be granted, and will include $3.8 million for the Leopold community hub; $3.23 million for the Drysdale sporting precinct; and $1.8 million for the Hendy St reserve development.

Council had set aside the money for the Drysdale landfill in the 2017-18 Budget but the money will now be brought forward into its 2018-19 Budget.

The 2018-19 Budget will be unveiled today and be put up for community consultation.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood said “prudent financial management” had allowed council to fund city-shaping projects by drawing from its cash reserve. He said more than $27 million in budgeted borrowings will be deferred until next financial year — saving ratepayers a forecasted $1.1 million in interest.

Meanwhile Greater Geelong residents could be hit with an increase in recycling costs from July after China decided to stop importing low-quality mixed ables.

More than 20 councils across Melbourne have indicated levy increases up to $92 to cope with the extra costs.

Municipal Association of Victoria CEO Rob Spence said councils wanted to avoid recyclable material ending up in landfill.

“The MAV anticipates many councils will have to increase their waste charges to cover a rise in recycling costs,’’ Mr Spence said.

“State and federal government investment and action is critical to turn the current situation around.’’ recycl-