Published on Tuesday, 25 July 2023 at 4:07:32 PM
Improved roads, sewerage works, and rejuvenated public spaces are just some of the benefits to be delivered by the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s 2023/24 budget announced at last night’s Ordinary Council Meeting.
Budget highlights and key projects include:
- $25 million on roads renewals and upgrades
- $12.5 million for water harvesting initiatives to future-proof the city’s wastewater and recycled water systems
- $10 million development of the Golf Course Resort the Double Tree Hilton to provide visitor accommodation and recreation opportunities for residents and families
- $6 million Kingsbury Park Youth Precinct Development including a brand-new pump track, parkour spaces, multi-purpose courts, and toilet upgrade
- $4 million for the completion Kal City Centre Project and of the transformation of the Kalgoorlie Central Business District
- $1.5 million in community grants and sponsorships
The City will also focus on community safety with $1 million planned for crime prevention initiatives and $2 million for lighting at parks and reserves and the first stages of LED streetlight upgrades.
Residents will see enhancements to recreation facilities including $2.5 million of building improvements at the Goldfields Oasis and fencing, furniture, irrigation, and lighting works at several City parks totalling $1 million.
Mayor John Bowler expressed pride in the City's financial management, successfully ending the 2022/23 financial year with a projected surplus of over $5 million.
“The City remains committed to a responsible and conservative approach to its budget, aiming to balance the cost of living while delivering vital services and securing investments for the future.”
“We understand the importance of keeping the financial burden reasonable for our residents and always strive to balance the current cost of living while still ensuring the City can deliver necessary services and investment for the future.”
“We’ve worked to keep the rate in the dollar at a 3.97% increase, which equates to $65 per year for the average homeowner.”
“We’ve heard the community’s feedback what where the City’s money should be spent, and the rates revenue alongside other income sources such as grants, will enable us to respond to these essential areas.”
“I’m incredibly proud of the investment we are putting into some of the biggest development projects I’ve seen during my time as Mayor, including two major precincts in Kalgoorlie’s Central Business District – the Kingsbury Park Youth Precinct and Kal City Centre, as well as works at the Goldfields Oasis and Golf Course.”
“When planning the importance with aligning with the City’s Strategic Community Plan was always at the forefront, and we have worked hard to ensure this budget enables us to keep driving the liveability and economic sustainability of our city,” said Mayor Bowler.
As part of the 20223/24 budget, the City has planned for additional expenditure to cover increasing costs of materials and contractors, as well as staff shortages.
Rates notices will include the Emergency Services Levy, collected by Local Governments, and paid to the State Government to assist with rescue services, bush fire emergencies, and the State Emergency Services.
To assist ratepayers, the City provides rate concessions and exceptions, including rebates for pensioners and seniors. Payment plan arrangements are also available.
By paying their rates on time, ratepayers will automatically be entered into a draw for a chance to win a share of the $10,000 prize pool. Also, by opting to receive their rates notices via email, ratepayers can win a $500 gift card.
More information about the rates prize draw and 2023/24 budget available on the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder website.
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