A start to construction of flood levees for Castlemaine and Campbells Creek are among highlights in Mount Alexander Shire’s newly adopted $44.42 million budget.
The council has adopted the new budget for the new financial year ahead, outlining the resources required to deliver more than 100 Council services, along with a number of new initiatives and $13.32 million in capital works.
Allocations include significant investment to begin construction of flood levees, along with other improvements in Castlemaine and Campbells Creek, aimed at reducing the impact of major flood events on housing, businesses and community buildings.
The new budget also prioritises spending to upgrade sporting facilities in the shire, and improve local pools.
Subject to the receipt of grant funding, the council will be constructing a new female-friendly pavilion at Bill Woodfull Recreation Reserve improving the netball court at Campbells Creek, adding flood lighting in Harcourt, and making improvements to Castlemaine’s skate park and Chewton’s Memorial Park.
Projects to improve roads and make the shire safer include a new pedestrian crossing on Walker Street between the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens and the Mill precinct, and upgrades to Fogartys Gap Road.
The council has also opted to continued its commitment to scope opportunities to address affordable housing in the shire.
The budget is forecast to enable the council to deliver high quality services whilst navigating the economic challenges of the COVID pandemic.
Following community feedback, the council has committed additional funds to the BMX parks, weed management, Christmas decorations, and several other items.
Mayor of Mount Alexander Shire, Bill Maltby, said the newly adopted budget was developed in response to community feedback, and was worked on diligently by staff and councillors to meet the needs of our diverse community.
“Councillors have thought long and hard about the varying needs of our community, and I think we’ve developed a budget that will benefit the entire shire,” Cr Maltby said.
Copies of the 2022/2023 budget can be viewed at the Castlemaine Civic Centre, the Castlemaine Library or online.