By Alesha Capone
Wyndham council’s 2020-21 budget includes $106 million in capital works, including more than $23 million for road projects.
Mayor Josh Gilligan said the council continuously heard from the community that the area’s roads were in need of investment.
“That’s why we’re proud to be investing $8.7 million on the reconstruction of local roads, and $3 million to resurface others,” Cr Gilligan said.
“One road that will soon be upgraded is Tarneit Road between Sayers and Leakes Roads. “We’re providing $1 million to begin the duplication of this stretch of road.”
The council has also included $1.8 million for the Bethany Road bridge; $2 million to upgrade Bulban Road between McGraths Road and Edgars Road; and $1 million to widen Little River roads.
Other major investments in the budget include $4 million to replace Eagle Stadium’s roof and $13 million to design and construct two new cells at the Werribee tip.
Cr Gilligan said the council would provide $3.5 million for new soccer facilities at Galvin Park, and $950,000 for a new car park, pavilion and landscaping at Bensonhurst Parade Reserve.
Cr Gilligan said another key focus of the budget was to provide residents with access to essential council services.
“The new Riverdale Community Centre in Tarneit is currently under construction, on track to open by early 2021,” he said. “We’re allocating $4.8 million this financial year towards the construction of this important facility, which will ensure residents have access to early childhood education, maternal and child health services, and a wide range of programs and community spaces.
“We’ve also allocated $10.2 million to commence construction of two new children’s centres in Truganina and Tarneit North.”
Cr Heather Marcus said the COVID-19 pandemic would likely have a “significant impact” on council operations.
Cr Peter Maynard said the council’s 2020-21 budget surplus would be approximately $2 million.
He said $158.4 million surplus listed in the budget documents was an “accounting view” including funds and gifted assets the council was expecting to receive in the future.
Details: wyndham.vic.gov.au
