The continued development of a Romsey Structure Plan and the construction of the first stage of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct, MRRSP, are among the key parts of Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s recently adopted 2022-23 budget.
Council voted to approve the budget, along with year two actions from its 2021-31 council plan, at last month’s scheduled meeting.
The $111.5 million budget includes a $41.2 million capital works program, representing more than a third of council’s total revenue.
About a quarter of all council spending will go towards the maintenance of roads, drains, buildings and paths, while garbage, recycling and waste collection, 17.65 per cent; emergencies, local laws and public health, 15.57 per cent; and children, youth and families, 13.01 per cent, are other key service spending areas.
Rates will rise by 1.75 per cent, in line with the State Government’s rate cap.
Other than the MRRSP and Romsey Structure Plan, projects funded in the budget include: training net renewal and facility upgrades at Hanging Rock Cricket Club; planning for improvements to Macedon Bowling Club’s current clubrooms; planning for a female-friendly pavilion and upgraded netball courts at Kyneton Football Netball Club; the installation of a slow point before the crest of Brooke Street and construction of a crossing at the intersection of Brooke and Templeton streets, Woodend; building renewal works including a disability-compliant car park at Red Brick Hall, Kyneton; and off-grid relief and recovery centres with equipment for communities to be self-sufficient in terms of electricity, water, and telecommunications in times of emergency.
Mayor Jennifer Anderson said the budget would support the community and businesses with pandemic and storm recovery measures, as well as the continuation of key projects.
“It’s exciting to see key projects continuing to progress, and the addition of new projects which will further strengthen our shire and make such a difference to our community,” she said.
Council chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan said the budget would continue to deliver on priorities highlighted in the council plan, which stemmed from residents who participated in creating a community vision document in 2021.
“Through our advocacy efforts we have been able to attract further funding to deliver our major projects and improve services to the community, as well as include some additional works. We look forward to delivering on year two of the council plan 2021-2031 and upholding our community vision,” he said.
Council also endorsed a 2021-2031 asset plan outlining its management of assets including buildings, roads, bridges, kerbs and gutters, footpaths, cycling tracks, open space and recreation assets, information communication and technology, stormwater and flood management, and plant, fleet, and equipment.
Council’s current assets are valued at more than $964 million excluding land.
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