GREATER investment in the bread and butter components of a community can be expected in Leeton Shire Council’s budget this year.
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Council has released the draft versions of its 2018-19 operational plan and revenue policy, which includes the fees and charges being proposed.
The operational budget for 2018/19 is steady, but the capital works budget has significantly increased.
The total cost of all capital works, a mix of new and upgrades, is $21.2 million.
To fund these works council is proposing to use a mixture of grants (51.5 per cent), loans (4.7 per cent), reserves (35.8 per cent) and rates income (8 per cent).
Greater investment is being proposed for new footpaths and drainage than previous years and similar investment to previous years in roads, parks and recreation, solid waste, sewer and water services.
On a cultural front, council plans to pursue significant grant funding to help undertake a full refurbishment of the Roxy Theatre and upgrade of the Whitton Museum, with funds set aside for both in 18/19 to prepare detailed plans.
Leeton shire mayor Paul Maytom said the NSW government has also made $800,000 available for sports funding in the shire.
These funds, if approved, will be directed to the Leeton Showground Trust’s demolition and rebuild of an amenities block and grandstand.
“This project is long overdue for this important sporting precinct in Leeton shire,” councillor Maytom said.
“Estimated to cost $1.4 million, council may provide, if necessary, a $200,000 loan to the Showground Trust on condition it is paid back over 10 years.”
Also on the agenda over the next 12 months will be the completion of the reticulated sewer services in Wamoon.
Council may also commence the proposed 22 lot Whitton subdivision development if sufficient lots are sold off the plans.
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Council has also applied for $3 million of regional sports infrastructure funding for the Leeton Swimming Pool upgrade with $1.255 million coming from council reserves and loan funding.
Cr Maytom encouraged residents to have their say on the budget either in writing addressed to council’s general manager Jackie Kruger, online at the Have Your Say portal or by completing an online form at www.leeton.nsw.gov.au. All feedback must be received by June 10.