By Ewen McRae
Moorabool council has approved its 2020-21 budget, but not before strong debate on the merits of a rate rise.
The budget includes a two per cent rate rise, $38.216 million in capital works and a financial hardship policy for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
An indoor recreation centre and pool in Bacchus Marsh and upgrades to the Darley Park Recreation Reserve pavilion were among the capital works planned.
Councillors Tom Sullivan and Paul Tatchell voted against the budget, with Cr Sullivan arguing that a rate rise would hurt residents already struggling through the pandemic.
“We are basically in a time of unprecedented uncertainty,” Cr Sullivan said.
“This COVID-induced recession we are going through is a private sector recession. People in Moorabool Shire are hurting, and a rate increase of two per cent is a kick in the guts.
“I know there will be arguments put forward with respect to the long term financial viability of the shire, and the two per cent rate increase is needed for the viability of the shire, the reasoning is sound but the timing is appalling.
“Council should have regard and empathy for ratepayers who are doing it tough.”
Councillor Lawry Borgelt spoke in favour of the rate rise.
“Nobody likes paying rates, and voting for a rate increase is never popular,” he said.
“To do so at this time is a serious decision and one which should not be taken lightly.
“But this is a budget for the future, and putting forward this rate increase sets us up to provide infrastructure for our population increase.
“This budget also provides actual targeted relief for those individuals and businesses that have been affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic, and not just a token effort that a zero per cent rate rise represents.”
The budget was passed by four votes to two.
