Council has adopted its 2024-25 budget, including fees and charges, with a focus on improving community living.
Mayor Marg White said the budget included an average rate increase of 2.75 per cent, in line with the State Government Fair Go Rates System.
"Council is mindful of any increase and its impact on the community, but to provide essential services, maintain our assets and to deliver ongoing and new programs we do need to increase rates to this level," Cr White said.
The budget sets out Council's financial plan for the coming year, and takes steps towards achieving the community vision for 2050. "We are investing in items that matter to our ratepayers and residents and we are passionate about building a stronger economy, celebrating community life, and protecting our beautiful natural environment," Cr White said.
The budget includes the first new loan for many years, for the electrification of the Bluewater Leisure Centre. This project will proceed if Council is successful in securing an external grant for 50% of the total project cost, and offers environmental outcomes through ongoing carbon emission reductions, financial savings through lower operating costs and a co-contribution to major asset renewal works.
Council has increased its investment into asset renewal to $11.3 million to maintain local infrastructure and facilities as part of an overall Capital Works Program with $11.52 million in new funding allocations.
Waste collection charges have increased by less than a dollar per week for residents with a kerbside collection service, which maintains the amount of rate revenue relied on to deliver this important service.
The 2024-25 Budget was adopted at Wednesday night's Council meeting with amendments that included redirecting $41,000 for the purchase of carbon offsets towards Council's annual tree planting program.
Council continues to invest in easing the housing and accommodation pressures faced by residents and businesses by investing in ongoing strategic land use planning work. This year Council will fund and commence the Apollo Bay Structure Plan.
"Preparation of this budget has been a significant undertaking by officers and Councillors, and I also thank the community groups and individuals who also gave their time and ideas to inform this document," Cr White said.
Key projects in the budget include:
- Commence the Apollo Bay Structure Plan
- Bluewater Leisure Centre Electrification Project – Stage 1 Planning and Design
- Ongoing Council contribution to the Youth Engagement Program
- Council Election and new Councillor Term induction
- Rating and Revenue Plan
- Further Bike Park Planning
- Installation of Street Art
- Memorial Square Colac fountain renewal
- Support for Christmas by the Lake and the Light up Apollo Bay events.
The 2024-25 Budget is available to view on Council's website.
