Mitchell Shire Council endorsed a $167 million budget for 2023/24 at a Special Council meeting held on Monday 29 May.
The budget aims to address the challenges posed by the projected tripling of the Shire's population over the next 20 years.
With a strong focus on infrastructure and community development, this budget is designed to keep ahead of the growth and deliver quality services and facilities to both its current and future residents.
Council's budget includes significant investments in crucial areas such as roads, bridges, footpaths, libraries, preschools and maternal and child health services, leisure centres, recreation reserves and parks and playgrounds.
These investments are part of a comprehensive four-year capital works program which prioritises what we have heard from the community along with what has been identified through visionary planning.
This is demonstrated with our planning for nearly $240 million over the next four years, including $25.6 million in new projects in 2023/24, Council aims to enhance the overall well-being of its residents and build healthy, connected and sustainable communities well into the future whilst protecting and enhancing what we currently value.
Key highlights of Council's 2023/24 Budget include:
- $5 million for the improvement, upgrade and development of buildings, including the redevelopment of the Kilmore Senior Citizens Centre and Pyalong Kindergarten and Maternal Child Health, as well as the revitalisation of the Wandong Community Centre. There will also be upgrades to RB Robson Stadium in Wallan and continued works at Broadford Family and Children's Centre. These projects are in partnership with the State Government, with $3.3 million of grant funding to enable these projects to be delivered
- $7.2 million for the construction and upgrade of roads across the Shire, along with $1.2 million allocated for footpaths and cycleways. These infrastructure enhancements aim to improve connectivity and ensure safe and efficient transport options for residents
- $3 million for planning, design, and upgrades to recreational, leisure, and community facilities. This includes lower oval works at Greenhill Reserve
in Wallan, which is supported by a Federal Government commitment, an upgrade investigation for Kilmore Leisure Centre, and the continuation of
works on the activation of Beveridge Recreation Reserve, in partnership with the State Government
- $2.6 million for upgrades to parks, open spaces, and streetscapes, with ongoing projects at Kings Park playspace in Seymour, Ryans Creek
Reserve in Kilmore, and the Wallan Central Cycle and Nature Trail, in partnership with the State Government
The budget was developed in consultation with the community, gathering valuable feedback earlier this year and through the year-round project input
process.
It is shaped by the Council Plan 2021-24 and Mitchell 2050 Community Vision, ensuring that it aligns with the long-term goals and aspirations of the residents.
As the Shire prepares for significant growth, Council's 2023/24 budgetdemonstrates its commitment to proactively address the challenges that lie
ahead.
By investing in vital infrastructure and essential services, Mitchell Shire Council strives to create a thriving and sustainable community for both current and
future residents.
