GLENELG Shire Council has endorsed its 2018/19 budget, voting to invest in local roads, marina infrastructure and recreation facilities for its ratepayers.
Mayor Anita Rank said the $52m budget included a $4.4m commitment to upgrade local roads and an allocation of $16m to undertake an extensive capital works program.
Council will also commit $8.3m to deliver priority projects, including $1.2m to implement stage one of the Bridgewater Bay Master Plan, $1.9m to enhance the Portland foreshore and construct an all-abilities playspace and $4.7m to improve fuel access and extend the marina and trawler wharf at the Portland marina.
Fees and charges have also been kept at a minimum with an increase of 2.25pc, as per State Government recommendations and consistent with the consumer price index.
“Council is pleased to endorse another budget that promises quality services and programs,” Cr Rank said.
“This budget compliments the strategic goals of the 2017/21 council plan, seeking to ensure economic prosperity and to enhance the liveability of our region.”
Over the next twelve months council will embark on delivering multi-million dollar projects that will create new jobs, attract further visitation and diversify our economy.
“Investing in projects such as the Portland foreshore and the Bridgewater Bay Master Plan will protect our shire’s most iconic and popular natural assets, create further tourism offerings and will improve recreation opportunities, particularly with the development of the shire’s first dedicated all-abilities playspace.
“There is no better time to live, work, play, study and invest in the Glenelg Shire.”
Cr Rank said the budget complimented recent ratepayer feedback.
“The results of the 2018 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey illustrated our substantial investment in local roads has been recognised and supported by our community,” she said.
“Sealed local roads was council’s most improved service area, with one in five residents rating sealed local roads as ‘very good’ or ‘good’ and an 11pc decrease in poor ratings compared to 2017,” she said.
“This indicates council has been actively listening and delivering on local road projects for the shire.”
The 2018/19 budget will continue to build upon these investments and further establish safer regional road networks.”
