By Olivia Condous
Moorabool Shire council officially adopted the 2022-23 budget last week, with a big jump in the capital works spending for the year.
The most recent budget will see council spend $61.48 million, a $23.86 million increase on the previous year.
The council identified 13 key projects to be funded through the capital program for the upcoming year, including $6 million for the second stage of the Bacchus Marsh Racecourse and Recreation Reserve, as well as $2.88 million for the Bacchus Marsh Indoor Recreation Facility.
Bacchus Marsh Bowls Club is set to receive $970,000 for an upgrade to their pavilion and bowling green.
Councillor David Edwards spoke in favour of the proposed budget and said it was “really exciting”.
“Councillors have listened and adapted to its community’s requests… I think it’s a pretty impressive achievement by the council,” Cr Edwards said.
Councillor Paul Tatchell agreed that the budget was “one of the best ones we’ve seen”, but was not in favour of an increase in rates as the cost of living was still increasing.
But Cr Edwards argued that the high spending in the budget would actually alleviate potential problems.
“I think it’s the perfect time to have this budget, at a time when we do face some significant fiscal issues across the country.
“Spend money, create jobs, help the community get through that tough time… we’re going to set ourselves up, right across our shire for the next 30 to 40 years, which is a terrific thing.”
For the 2022-23 Moorabool budget, rate increases were capped at 1.75% in line with the Victorian Government’s Fair Go Rates System.
