Bass Coast Shire Council adopted the 2021/22 Annual Budget at its June Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday.
Highlights of the Budget include funding for the planning and/or design of a number of significant, intergenerational projects including:
- Commencement of the construction of the Cowes Cultural and Community Centre
- Works to renew and upgrade a number of marine assets. This includes the Grantville boat ramp, jetty and seawall and the Rhyll boat ramp and jetty
- Cowes East Foreshore rock revetment wall and beach access
- A number of recreational projects that will deliver significant lighting improvements in Inverloch, Dalyston and Cowes as well as works on improving Thompson Reserve in Inverloch
The budget also provides for:
- Funding for the major Guy Road to Tenby Point shared path
- $3 million funding for urban and rural pavement renewal across the shire
- Wonthaggi Activity Centre Plan priorities
- Inverloch community hub renewal
The Proposed Budget was made available for public comment following the April Council Meeting and 18 submissions were received. Of those, eight were heard in person.
In response to the submissions received from the community, there were a number of changes recommended to the final 2021/22 Budget. These included the allocation of funding towards footpaths and seating in Corinella, solar panels for the Phillip Island Football and Netball Club, an upgrade of the San Remo Bowls Club and seating for the State Coal Mine.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari, said the Budget supports the delivery of over 100 services to the community.
"Council can now get to work with delivering our record $35.1 million Capital Works program outlined in the Budget, as well as other operational projects across the Shire," Cr Tessari said.
"There is money being spent Shire wide, which is a great outcome for the community."
Cr Tessari said it was great to see a high level of community engagement with the Budget process.
"It is important to get the community involved with the Budget process - as the final result effects everyone - ratepayers, visitors and businesses," Cr Tessari said.
"It was really pleasing to see that from the 18 budget submissions we received, we were able to assist some of those with funding in the 2021/22 Budget."
Council's adopted Annual 2021/22 Budget can be found at www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/budget.
