Mayor Garner Smith said the budget was financially responsible, and detailed the resources needed over the next year to fund a large range of community services.
Efforts to reduce the risks associated with future riverine and stormwater flood events will be supported as part of the budget.
Proposed allocations include over $1 million for flood betterment works, over $897,000 for stage one of the Koondrook levee, and $300,000 for stormwater network pump renewals.
“Improvements to our stormwater networks will reduce the impact of future events, meaning we can get back to connecting with our communities and supporting local businesses quickly,” Cr Smith said.
Road safety is a key feature of the budget, with $2 million from a Transport Accident Commission program to be used for various projects.
“Council sought residents’ feedback on eight proposed road safety projects earlier this year, with this information to assist with the list of improvements we will provide the state government for approval,” Cr Smith said.
Town rejuvenation efforts will continue, with $3 million allocated to stage two of the Cohuna Waterfront Development and $500,000 for the Koondrook Local Development Strategy.
Over $3.8 million is proposed for road, bridge and footpath improvements throughout the region, which is separate to flood repairs.
The council is also seeking $1.28 million in funding to engage a designer for the redevelopment of swimming pools in Cohuna and Kerang.
“The 2025/26 proposed budget also maintains key services council provides to the community,” Cr Smith said.
Of the more than $17 million proposed investment for capital works, 65 per cent of the funds will come from state or federal grants and contributions.
The proposed budget complies with the Fair Go Rates System, meaning municipal rates will not increase by more than three per cent compared to the previous year.
The municipal charge will remain at $100, with no changes to kerbside garbage and waste collection charges.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposed budget either in-person at a customer service centre, online, or over the phone by 5pm on Friday, May 16.
To view the budget and leave feedback, visit gsc.vic.gov.au/budget, phone 5450 9333, or email council@gsc.vic.gov.au
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