MURRAY River Council is projecting capital expenditure of $32.9 million in its 2017/18 operational plan and budget, which includes $20.633 million for infrastructure works.
The budget was adopted at a special meeting of the administered council last week, and will be the final one administrator David Shaw will oversee before September’s council elections.
Rates will increase by the rate peg limit of 1.5 per cent, with waste management, water supply and sewerage service annual charges to also increase by the same figure.
The budget includes the allocation of $9 million towards projects supported by the Stronger Communities Fund – including the construction of the Barham Recreation Reserve Multi-Purpose Complex ($1.5 million) and Barham Skate Park upgrade ($407,000).
Close to $16 million will be allocated to road works – with $12.2 million earmarked for rural roads – while $1.68 million will be used for water supply and $1.2 million for sewerage services.
Council will aim to record an operating revenue of $44.043 million and operating expenses of $37.275 million, with no planned borrowings for 2017/18.
“The 2017/18 operational plan and budget provides a solid base for the development of a long term financial strategy and community strategic plan to be approved by the incoming council in the three-month period following the September election,” Mr Shaw said.
