Maribyrnong council won’t seek variation to the state government’s rate cap in its 2024-25 proposed budget, with an average rate rise of 2.75 per cent on the cards for residents.
Meanwhile, there will not be an increase in waste service charges under the draft budget which was released on April 23.
Council said the 2024-25 budget would be based on external influences, including rate capping imposed by the state government, holding a general election in October, increased utility charges and more.
“Council is proposing to spend $140.4 million to fund 57 services and activities during the coming financial year to deliver on community priorities,” council said in a statement.
“Specifically around open space, sustainability and environment, transport infrastructure, city amenity and safety, and health, wellbeing and recreation.”
The draft budget includes $80 million for capital works to maintain, redevelop and improve services and assets. This financial year, council allocated $87 million for capital works.
The 2024-25 spending is proposed to be broken down into $20 million for roads infrastructure, $18 million for major projects, $9 million for aquatic and leisure centres and $8 million for parks and gardens.
In the draft budget, council said it will allocate $31 million of the capital and asset improvement works budget to several projects.
Some of the key projects will include $6 million for the Joseph Road Public Realm, $6 million for the reconstruction of Cowper Street, $1 million for the Hansen Reserve Pavilion construction, $810,704 for the Pipemakers Park Visitor Centre and Machine Shop and $535,000 for restoration of the Heritage Ponds at Footscray Park.
Mayor Cuc Lam said council understands the rates increase might provide difficult for residents.
“While council understands any increase could prove challenging for some especially in the current economic climate, it is also conscious of ensuring there is sufficient funding to support the community’s needs.
“We appreciate the cost of living challenges, which council is also having to negotiate.
“But this is the most fiscally responsible approach to ensure we are to deliver the services and infrastructure our community is asking of us, not just today but into the future.
“This proposed budget would ensure council remains financially sustainable and able to deliver and sustain quality services and infrastructure that will benefit our community as a whole, not just today but into the future.”
The proposed budget will be available for feedback until Wednesday, May 15.
Details:www.yourcityyourvoice.com.au/budget24-25
