MELTON councillors have clashed over a “mean-spirited” draft budget, with a proposed rates hike of 4 per cent leading to fiery debate.
Councillors Lara Carli and Broden Borg objected to the increase. However, a 5-2 vote approved it. The average rates rise is less than last year’s 4.5 per cent increase. However, Cr Carli labelled it “mean-spirited” and said many of the projects listed were not needed in Melton right now.
“To some, 4 per cent seems little, but I can assure our residents that with the pressures families are facing today, 4 per cent is a heavy burden,” she said. “We’ve got millions being spent over in Atherstone where I was told there’s roughly about 30 people. I’m not saying it’s not needed. I’m saying it’s not needed right now; it’s not a priority right now.”
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The 2013-14 budget sets aside $36.5 million for capital works, which includes $8.9 million for road infrastructure, $17.5 million for community buildings and $4.1 million for recreational assets. Major spending includes $21 million for a Western Business Accelerator and Centre for Excellence (Western BACE) to provide space and support for new and developing businesses. The budget also includes $1.5 million for a community hub in the Atherstone estate.
Cr Borg said he had made it “extremely clear” he wouldn’t support any rate increase. “I don’t disagree with the whole budget; I think there’s some facilities there that are really needed.”
Cr Bob Turner, who voted for the budget, claimed Cr Borg had failed to attend budget meetings prior to the release of the draft.
“We never saw you one night for one discussion. You’ve got to sit down with your fellow councillors and discuss what you want. If you discuss what you want we can work together. We must work as a team.
“A lot of people will really suffer from 4 per cent, but they’ll also suffer if they don’t have a kindergarten for their kids.”
Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the draft budget was “robust” and “well balanced”. Written submissions close May 30 and the budget will be voted on at a council meeting on June 11.
