The City of Belmont’s Statutory Budget for 2022-2023 was endorsed by Council at its Ordinary Council Meeting on Tuesday, 28 June, 2022.
“The City’s rate in the dollar will rise by 3.5 per cent, which is well below the State’s current inflation rate of 7.6 per cent. The Budget maintains the City’s commitment to low rate increases, demonstrating our responsible planning for the future,” City of Belmont Mayor Cr Phil Marks said.
“The preparation of the 2022-2023 Budget has again highlighted how challenging it is to try and meet the community’s expectations, contain costs in a volatile domestic and international market and keep rate increases at a moderate level. However, I believe the City has achieved the correct balance,” Mayor Marks said.
“The 2022-2023 Budget reflects that most activity will return to normal after COVID-19 interruptions over the past two years,” he said.
“Due to the challenges in the current supply market, there is a moderate decrease in capital projects this budget cycle, with a focus on asset management planning and the design phase of projects.
“The Consumer Price Index for Perth is forecasted to be 2.75 per cent during 2022-2023 and the Western Australian Local Government Association Local Government Cost Index is forecasted to be 2.5 per cent during 2022-2023,” Mayor Marks said.
“The average annual rates for residents will increase from approximately $1,412 to $1,451 - including a zero per cent change to rubbish charges, but excluding the State Government imposed Emergency Services Levy. This represents the increase of 2.76 per cent on the total rates and rubbish charge,” he said.
“The City of Belmont also continues to be one of the only councils in WA to offer a 5% discount for ratepayers who pay in full by the due date.
“The Financial Hardship Policy has been amended in 2022-2023 to support ratepayers facing any financial hardship, as opposed to only assisting those impacted by COVID-19. This important policy has been expanded to allow hardship applications to be received and evaluated throughout the financial year.
“This is a responsible Budget with targeted outcomes that will deliver tangible benefits to our community,” he said.
“This wide-ranging Budget includes continued funding for local domestic violence support ($180,000), ongoing commitment to the Community Safety Taskforce and Community Safety Alliance ($30,000) to tackle community safety and perception about crime issues, expansion of the CCTV network ($111,000) and financial support for partnerships with schools to assist with student support and engagement and alternative education opportunities ($78,000) - and this is only a small snapshot of what the City of Belmont provides,” Mayor Marks said.
Approximately $13.2 million has been budgeted for infrastructure capital works in the areas of road, buildings, parks, environment, streetscapes, footpaths and drainage.
“We have continued our activities in the area of community development, city projects, community events, the arts and placemaking, and remain focused on the natural environment, streetscapes and community facilities, as well as crime prevention, safety and security,” Mayor Marks said.
“We focus on areas our community tells us are important to them and our Budget demonstrates that we remain responsive to their views,” he said.
The 2022-2023 Budget includes:
- Wilson Park Netball Courts: $2,505,000 million towards the design and construction of the courts and lighting which includes $892,213 in grant funding;
- Middleton Park, Peachey Park, Volcano Park, Centenary Park East, Tomato Lake, Hoffman Park, Brearley Park North and Garvey Park: $1,285,000 towards renewal of playgrounds;
- The Esplanade Foreshore Stabilisation and Landscape Upgrade: $669,385 stabilisation works, environmental restoration, informal nature play and fishing platform;
- Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre: $800,331, Replacement of existing basketball backboards, repairs to roof and replacement of solar matting;
- Wilson Park Stage 2: $220,000 detailed design and documentation for the Heart and Playground;
- Belmont Park Tennis Club Lighting: $138,000 upgrade to lighting and hard courts;
- CCTV network expansion and improvement: $223,000
- Community Contribution Fund: $80,000
- Belmont Business Innovation Grants: $20,000
- Aboriginal Art Mural Project Wright Street Lobby Belmont Hub: $70,000 public art project.
“The budget process is a demanding task and I wish to recognise the efforts of, and extend my thanks to, my fellow Councillors and all the staff who have contributed to the process,” Mayor Marks said.
“I feel sure that the 2022-2023 Budget will support Council’s vision for Belmont – the City of Opportunity,” he said.
Residents will receive more information on the 2022-2023 Budget with their rate notices