New draft budget set to deliver $40 million in projects

The draft Orange City Council budget delivers a $1.9 million surplus, increases funding for footpaths, provides more than $100,000 to community events, facilities and charities and includes more than $40 million in capital works.

At a meeting last night (9 May 2017) the council voted unanimously to exhibit the draft Budget (2017/18

Community Strategic Plan and Delivery/Operational Plan).

Orange Deputy Mayor Jason Hamling said the draft budget continues to inject more funds into the roads.

“We have been doing more work in roads in recent years and have brought forward a number of projects into 2017/18 including Escort Way, Cargo Road and Leeds Parade,” Cr Hamling said.

Cr Hamling said staff and Councillors had been working on the draft budget for a number of months and now it was the community’s chance to have its say.

“The Councillors listen to the community when setting priorities so I would urge Orange residents to speak up. There are always more demands than dollars but where ever possible we look to deliver,” he said.

The capital projects in the 17/18 year include:

Some of the capital works projects will rely on other government funding to proceed.

Together with water, sewer and waste charges, this proposed increase would add around $40 a year to the average residential rate notice taking it to $2,282.

Cr Hamling said progressive Councils cover more than roads, rates and rubbish.

“That is very true of Orange City Council. You cannot live or work in this city without being affected by the activities of the Council. The Community Strategic Plan and the Delivery/Operational Plan guide those activities,” he said.

The deadline for community comments and submissions is 6 June.

Community comment and submissions will be considered before the final budget plans is adopted at a council meeting on 13 June.