MOORABOOL mayor Pat Toohey has taken aim at the state government’s lack of co-operation over Bacchus Marsh’s controversial eastern interchange.
The council announced in March it would work with both levels of governments to provide a safer alternative for the Western Highway.
But Cr Toohey said it was disappointing the state government had since placed advertisements announcing a series of community information sessions without consulting the council.
Cr Toohey is concerned the state is pressing ahead with the cheapest of five options, one of which has already been rejected by council in part due to environmental concerns.
“It would be good if the Premier and [Transport Minister] Terry Mulder actually came and spoke to council and the community before putting an ad in the paper. It’s very disappointing,” council CEO Rob Croxford said.
The community information sessions will be held from 3-5pm on Friday and 11am-1pm on Sunday. More details: 1800 212 602
■ Moorabool Council is chasing nearly $6.5 million in unpaid rates.
According to its latest quarterly financial report, 78.8 per cent of 2012-13 rates have been collected, with $5.09 million outstanding and $1.26 million arrears from previous years.
“Council is making effective inroads in recovery of outstanding rates,” Mr Croxford said.
Councillor and mayoral allowances have remained unchanged at $22,405 and $69,325 respectively. Mr Croxford said a $3.57 million decrease in the projected surplus would not affect services next year. —Ben Cameron
