AN unexpected $60,000 windfall – not included in the original Hobsons Bay Council 2012-13 draft budget – has been allocated to Altona City Soccer Club (ACSC) for Kim Reserve upgrades, boosting the project total to $100,000.
The move is likely to quell issues between the club and Noordenne Estate residents
over a ban last May on soccer training at Fell Reserve.
The extra money will come from a redistribution of Altona ward funds.
Some of the funds originally allocated for works to Altona Road, Cherry Lake, Altona Sports Precinct, Ransom Reserve playground, Altona Yacht Club and the Altona foreshore management plan will be redrawn.
ACSC facilities manager Robert Palmaricciotti acknowledged his club had received a large allocation.
But he pointed out that Kim Reserve had not been improved for 30 years.
“When it comes to lighting and improvements, funds go away quickly,” he said.
“And remember Fell Reserve was taken away from us and then there was a decision made by council to upgrade Kim Reserve as a priority and $40,000 (originally allocated) is not a priority.”
“You’re not going to do a lot for $40,000.”
The council also allocated $20,000 for improvements to Fell Reserve, which is expected to pay for landscaping and permanent furniture, such as a
rotunda.
