Opening for public comment on Thursday 23 May, the draft budget delivers $19.1 million in capital expenditure to help improve liveability for residents of all ages.
Major infrastructure investment headlines the budget, with $5.8 million allocated to the Regional Skate and Play Precinct at Newland Park, $2 million for a detailed design of the CBD Regeneration project and $908,000 for a complete revamp of Frank McEllister Park.
Council are also planning to improve liveability well into the future with funds allocated for a footpath and road reseal program to increase safety for residents, as well as the implementation of a greening strategy to reduce the effects of heat in our CBD.
“Presenting a practical budget that improves liveability for Alice Springs residents, both now and into the future, is something we are extremely proud of,” Mayor Matt Paterson said.
“We understand that cost of living pressures have hit us all hard across the last year. It’s about having a balance that recognises and helps with those challenges, while still investing in our town and helping create a connection between residents.
“We have some exciting projects to look forward to in Alice Springs and we’ve also budgeted to improve and expand our municipal services. We are taking a holistic look at the work we do within our community.”
Ratepayers will see an increase of 4.7% to rates, equating to a $1.38 per week increase on the minimum residential rate and $1.45 per week on the minimum commercial rate.
The draft Municipal Plan will be available to the public from Thursday 23 May via the Alice Springs Town Council website. Printed copies will also available at the Civic Centre Reception. All members of the public invited to submit their feedback. Feedback must be addressed to the CEO and can be submitted in written form at the Civic Centre Reception Desk or via email to astc@astc.nt.gov.au.
You can view the draft plan here.