Council Considers Ideas for the 2022-23 Budget
Published on 09 June 2022
Members of the public were invited to attend a Special Committee meeting of Council on 7 June to discuss submissions received in relation to the Proposed Budget 2022-23.
Following the release of the draft Budget on 29 April, Council undertook an extensive community engagement and consultation process to ensure that there was good information out in the community about the proposed Budget. Councillors held Community Information Sessions in both Melbourne and Mansfield with feedback generally positive about the budget and the direction the Council was taking. The budget was also open for online engagement on Council’s Engage Mansfield website.
Five submissions were received and covered diverse issues including the development of a splash park in Mansfield, mobility issues on High Street, the future of Targa High Country and the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Council de-amalgamation from Delatite Shire Council. Two submitters accepted the invitation to speak to their submissions at the Committee meeting.
Mayor Cr James Tehan explained the budget process provided an opportunity for the community to comment on the budget and where Council is focusing its spend.
“I thank those that took the time to come along and hear about the budget and members of the public that put a submission in. We really do like to hear from the community, and it shows great civic pride. I was particularly pleased this year to receive three submissions from very young people within our community,” said Cr Tehan.
“It’s extremely encouraging to see them taking an interest in how local government works and wanting to be involved in a positive way”.
Submissions received will be considered by Council as part of finalising the budget at the 28 June Council meeting.
The Proposed Budget 2022-23 and revised Revenue & Rating Plan are still available to review online at engage.mansfield.vic.gov.au.
After a zero percent rate increase this financial year (2021-22), the Proposed Budget considers a 1.75 percent rate increase in line with the State Government Rate Cap and provides for a total operating expenditure of almost $24 million and a capital works program of close to $11 million.
Key features of the Proposed Budget 2022-23 are:
- Constructing a new 100 vehicle carpark in High Street at a cost of $600,000 with the land Council has just purchased. Council is borrowing for this project.
- $1.45 million will focus on resolving long standing drainage issues, with $870,000 on the Apollo and High Street corner.
- Stage 2 of the Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route ($2.08 million).
- Open space and streetscape improvements ($412,000).
- Path and cycleways ($421,000).
- Station Precinct Master Plan – Heritage Museum Building ($1.28 million).
The 28 June Council meeting will commence at 5pm and will be streamed online at mansfield.vic.gov.au