Jennifer Pittorino
Hobsons Bay council won’t seek variation to the state government’s rate cap in its 2024-25 proposed annual budget, with an average rate rise of 2.75 per cent on the cards for residents.
Meanwhile, waste charges would increase by 7.5 per cent under the draft budget which was released on April 9.
Council said this year’s rates will be based on new 2024 valuations, meaning rate increases will vary across the differential rating categories and individual properties.
“Inflation has reduced council’s real level of income from rates when compared to the increases in costs that have occurred,” a report to the council meeting stated.
“This has created significant pressure on council’s ability to deliver services and infrastructure projects.
“This is a challenge that has been carefully considered in forming the budget in 2024-25 and the rate increase in line with the cap.”
In the draft budget, council said it will spend $13.42 million on buildings, $17.9 million on recreation and open space, $10 million on roads and $1 million on footpaths and cycleways.
Support and activities for older residents, younger people with disabilities, and carers will also receive $3.6 million, while universal primary health (maternal and child health) and immunisation services will receive $3.57 million.
Council has also allocated $1.6 million to support young people with a range of social activities, leadership development, and mental health and support services.
The total capital works budget will be $54.1 million. Last financial year, council allocated $58 million for capital works.
The highlights of the proposed 2024-25 capital works program include $8.5 million towards the construction of the Altona Beach entry and Esplanade closure project, $1.85 million to upgrade the Altona North Community Library to a Centre of Excellence and $1.3 million towards the Laverton Football Club pavilion and scoreboard upgrade.
Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler said the budget is financially responsible and sustainable.
“It adheres to the rate cap and ensures funding for the infrastructure and services that make Hobsons Bay an even better place to live, work and play.”
The proposed budget will be available for feedback until Sunday, May 12.
Details: participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/annual-budget-2024-25.
