Wodonga Council endorsed the draft budget 2019-2020 and adjusted council plan for public exhibition at the May council meeting.
The draft budget includes an effective drop of 2.58 per cent to overall rates and charges with a significant reduction in the waste management levy of $112.
The reduction realises the council’s aim of addressing the Victorian Ombudsman’s recommendation regarding the levy in full within two years, one year earlier than prescribed.
This budget includes a proposed rate increase of 2.5 per cent, in line with the state rate cap, however, ratepayers will see a 2.58% decrease due to the waste management levy changes.
For the seventh consecutive year, there are no new borrowings in this budget.
Our assets continue to be well-managed and our renewals fully funded now and in the long-term capital plan. This draft budget includes $5.4 million for renewing our community assets.
The capital program of $15 million will see major projects continued to be delivered across the city including the start of the library gallery redevelopment.
Significant items in the draft 2019-2020 budget include:
- Logic gas gate;
- Lawrence St bridge replacement and road reconfiguration;
- Baranduda Boulevard and John Schubert Drive intersection;
- Whytes Rd and Murray Valley Highway intersection;
- Car parking upgrades at Baranduda Reserve, Emerald Oval and Gayview Park;
- Footpath connections at Baranduda;
- Shade and shelters at Willow Park;
- New dog park;
- Installation of seating and water bubblers; and
- Street and reserve tree planting.
Hard copies of the budget can be reviewed at the council’s customer service centre in High St, Wodonga Library and community centres.