Byron Shire Council says it has adopted its $73 million operating budget for 2016/17.
What’s in the bag? General rates will rise as per the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal Home (IPART) rate-pegging determination of 1.8 per cent. For an average residential household, the council says land rates are estimated to rise by about $44.
Byron Shire mayor Simon Richardson says the council is firmly focused on improving its ageing infrastructure.
‘Last year we increased our commitment to capital works with strong progress made on road renewals and reseals.
‘The upcoming year will strengthen that focus again with this year’s budget increased to $52 million, which includes $7 million carry over from 2015/16.
‘This is the largest capital works program to date on roads, drains, open spaces, community facilities, water and sewerage. It will be five times the amount spent, as compared to our first year on Council back in 2012/13.
‘Residential, farmland and business rates will account for just over 21 per cent of 2016/17 budget revenue, with a similar amount of revenue being forecast to come in from grants and contributions.
‘The remaining revenues are estimated to be generated from fees, user charges and new sources of revenue including property development and rationalisation.’ For more information visit www.byron.nsw.gov.au.
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