The average rate will rise by 2.75 per cent in line with the order by the Victorian Local Government Minister in December 2023 under the Fair Go Rates System.
Adopted at the June council meeting, council’s key annual financial document outlines how council will spend the $53.373 million of revenue generated through rates, charges and grants during 2024-25, with an underlying surplus of $389,000.
“Council’s 2024-25 budget will continue to support key services our residents rely on and invest in some significant capital works projects, made possible thanks to the support of the State and Federal governments,” Mayor Ross Stanton said.
“The underlying surplus is an improvement compared to the proposed version of the budget ($5000); however, we are committed to looking at ways we can continue to maintain current service levels under challenging economic constraints.”
Council’s major capital works project for 2024-25 is the construction of The Glasshouse @ The Gannawarra, which is to be incorporated into Kerang’s Sir John Gorton Library.
The 2024-25 budget will also support the future redevelopment of the Cohuna and Kerang swimming pools, with $80,000 allocated to engage a designer to development plans for both sites, based on information outlined in the Gannawarra Aquatic Strategy.
“Once approved by councillors following a community engagement period, council will use the designs to seek funding from the State and Federal governments to complement council’s contribution to these key works,” Cr Stanton said.
Work to repair roads damaged by the 2022 floods will continue throughout 2024-25, with $8 million allocated to support these works, with $298,000 to be provided for urban stormwater network and pump renewal works to minimise flooding during future storm events.
Other major initiatives supported by the 2024-25 budget include:
- Gravel road resheeting ($1.21 million);
- Bitumen road reseal ($1.06 million);
- Sealed road rehabilitation ($1.02 million);
- Apex Park Road bridge replacement ($632,000)
- Kervins Road bridge replacement ($503,000)
- McLeans Bridge replacement ($298,000)
- Kerb replacement ($266,000); and
- Footpath replacement ($160,000).
“The 2024-25 budget maintains key services council provides to the community, such as our popular children’s services, libraries, waste management and recreational facilities,” Cr Stanton said.
Council sought community feedback regarding the 2024-25 proposed budget during a 29-day period, resulting in 10 people providing feedback.
“Council thanks residents who took the time to provide input into the 2024-25 budget and looks forward to working with the community to implement the extensive projects and services outlined in the document,” Cr Stanton said.
To download the 2024-25 Gannawarra Shire Council budget, click on the Budget heading at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/documents
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