Campaspe Shire Council's budget focusses on roads and infastructure

Key areas of expenditure in the adopted budget's capital program include $10.26 million on roads, $2.97 million on footpaths and cycleways, and $2.74 million on public buildings.

There will also be $2.20 million on land improvements, $2.37 million on drainage and $0.81 million on recreation and leisure.

Five submissions were received to the budget, with two electing to speak at the submission hearing on March 26.

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Mayor Chrissy Weller said that despite the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, the budget had been carefully developed.

"I am delighted that, despite the extraordinary challenges of the last 18 months and the continued challenges of delivering services within ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions, we have developed a budget that maintains service levels, delivers a comprehensive works program and continues progress towards long-term financial sustainability," she said.

"Of the five submissions, three were in support of a capital project, and two were seeking additional funds for two separate capital projects.

"Council resolved to review the requests for additional funds for the capital projects at a budget review later in the year.

"Following consideration of public submissions along with internal reviews, the budget was adopted with minor amendments."

The amendments included additional grant income received after release of the proposed budget including $784,428 for the redevelopment of the Rushworth Customer Service Centre and Library, and for upgrades to the museum displays at the Port of Echuca.

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A reducation in the rate in the dollar from the propsed budget was amended after receiving certification from the Victorian Valuer General for the 2021 general property valuation.

The final amendment was updating the Financial Assistance Grant to reflect a slight increase in the grant funds to be received.

The adopted budget details the 78 projects in the $28.4 million Capital Works Program as well as listing all fees and charges across all service areas.

Campaspe Shire Council also adopted its first Revenue and Rating Plan which will be in place for the four-year term of the current council and will determine the most appropriate and affordable revenue and rating approach.

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