The Taylors Hill area is a big winner in Melton council’s 2017-2018 budget, with $10 million earmarked for the construction of sports ovals, pavilions and courts in the new Taylors Hill West suburb.
Melton council recently adopted the budget, which also includes funds to extend the Caroline Springs Leisure Centre and tennis complex and the redevelopment of MacPherson Park.
Melton mayor Sophie Ramsey said significant investment in capital works and initiatives was made possible by the council’s grant funding success, revenue-stream diversification, debt reduction and strategic forward planning. “Council will continue its strong investment in key infrastructure and services, with a $52.2-million investment in capital works projects, including $19 million for recreation infrastructure, $15.7 million for road works, $5.5 million for buildings, and $4.6 million for bridge works,” Cr Ramsey said.
The council has budgeted $500,000 to upgrade female change rooms across Melton city and $1.305 million to replace footpaths.
The duplication of Hume Drive, Taylors Hill, and upgrades to Bridge Road are among dozens of infrastructure works budgeted for the next financial year through its capital works program. As well, the council has put aside $3.67 million for a streetscape upgrade in Melton township as part of the Pride of Melton project, and the construction of a bridge at Westwood Drive over the Kororoit Creek, expected to cost $2 million.
Rate rises will be capped at two per cent this year in line with the state government-imposed limit, with the council expected to raise a total of $104 million in rates and service charges.
The council says it will raise $7.65 million in municipal charges, up 6.6 per cent from the previous year.
Pensioners will be eligible for a $70 rebate on their rates.
Meanwhile, the
Council and Wellbeing Plan 2017-2021 has also been released – a document that will guide Melton council in health and wellbeing decisions for the municipality over the next four years.
“Our new vision … engenders community pride, a safe and diverse environment, where everyone is welcome, nurtured and given the opportunity to realise their greatest potential,” Cr Ramsey said.
“It is the foundation upon which our new Council and Wellbeing Plan is built.”
The 2017-2018 Budget and 2017-2021 Council and Wellbeing Plan can be viewed online at www.melton.vic.gov.au.
