Draft Borough budget invests in public facilities and environment

Published on 29 April 2021

The Borough of Queenscliffe has released its draft budget for residents to consider, including substantial investment in public facilities and protecting the environment.

Council’s draft 2021–22 budget, which was endorsed for public exhibition at Wednesday’s meeting, includes $1.3 million for new operating and capital projects. Community infrastructure is the focus of significant investment, including $360,000 to design and renew toilet and change facilities across the Borough. A further $60,000 has been allocated to scope and design an upgrade for the Royal Park Oval, and $20,000 will support the development of a concept design for a bike park.

Environmental projects are also a focus of the Borough’s draft budget, with $150,000 allocated for the first tranche of initiatives outlined in Council’s draft Climate Emergency Response Plan. These initiatives, including $70,000 for electric car charging stations, will ensure the Borough can immediately commence work implementing the actions in the plan.

Mayor Ross Ebbels noted that after a challenging year, the draft budget has returned to balance. “During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, some suggested that governments would have to choose between prudent financial management and supporting communities most exposed to the crisis,” said Cr Ebbels in his introduction. “I am pleased to report that the Borough of Queenscliffe has shown it is possible to do both, with our 2021–22 budget maintaining a debt-free balance sheet while allocating $1.3 million for various new operating and capital projects.”

Members of the community are being invited to attend a budget presentation at 6:00pm on 10 May to learn more about the budget and ask questions. More information about how to participate online or in person is available at queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/budget.