The City of Bayswater has set a budget for the 2009/2010 financial year aimed at funding the services demanded by the community, whilst also maintaining and improving the City’s infrastructure and community assets.

The Council’s budget has been set at $72.4 million, which includes $28.39 million in capital expenditure and represents a rate rise of 2.65 per cent.

Given the uncertainty that still surrounds the State Government’s increase in the landfill levy that is meant to be applicable from 1 January 2010, Council decided not to include the impact of the levy on its ratepayers this year.

The Mayor says the budget places emphasis on maintaining much valued community services and ensuring that the fabric of the city – roads, footpaths, parks, reserves and community buildings – are maintained to a high standard.

“In preparing this budget, we started with the premise that it had to be financially prudent and balanced, with the overall rate rise limited to no more than needed to address inflationary trends.”

“With the global recession underway and impacting on our State, we recognised that family budgets would be under pressure and that any rate rise had to be affordable.”

The City of Bayswater’s budget for 2008/2009 includes:

• $10 million for the construction of the Maylands Multi Purpose Centre
• $4 million to upgrade streetscapes and improve the Swan River foreshore
• $2.467 million to maintain and improve the city’s roads and footpaths
• $895,436 for the Security Watch Service
• $359,600 for Community Events such as the Avon Descent and Autumn River Festival
• $986,000 to upgrade active recreation facilities in parks and reserves throughout the city
• $223,200 for Youth Programs
• $158,000 to upgrade the Bayswater Waves Aquatic Centre

The Mayor says the budget provides for both sustainability and progress within the city and ensures the amenity of the City is preserved and enhanced.

“The services and facilities provided by Council make a positive contribution to the quality of life enjoyed within our city and the 2009/2010 budget will deliver real benefits to the community.”