BAROSSA residents have until July 7 to have a say on their council’s budget for 2020/21.
The Barossa Council’s draft 2020-21 Annual Budget and Business Plan predicts a $202,000 net operating surplus, and includes $26.8m of capital expenditure.
Income from rates will rise by 1.5 per cent, to bring in a total rates income of $27.2 million.
Council’s rate-in-the-dollar charge on residential properties will be decreased by 0.70 per cent, however the average residential property valuation has increased by 3.25 per cent.
“Council recognises that ratepayers wish increases to their rates to be as low as possible,” the budget states.
“However it is necessary to ensure that current services are properly funded and can continue to be delivered without significantly impacting standards or passing on a financial burden to future ratepayers or cutting services utilised by the community.
“Current assets and infrastructure owned by council deteriorate over time through wear and tear and must be replaced or renewed at appropriate intervals in order to prolong their lives and continue to deliver services to the community.
“The increase in rate revenue will provide the necessary funding to meet the programmed upgrade, renewal and replacement plans in place.”
Capital projects to be funded in 2020/21 include the extension of the Barossa Trail into Gawler (dependant on grant funding) and the Angas Park Recreation Park upgrade, valued at $2.8 million.
At least $330,000 has been added to next year’s budget as part of a $455,000 two-year plan to support the community in its recovery of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Council’s public consultation period for its draft budget, ends 5pm, July 7, with residents able to access the document at the Nuriootpa office, council libraries or at (yoursay.barossa.sa.gov.au).