'Tough but responsible' budget
LOCKYER Valley ratepayers can expect a rate rise of 7.5% - about $3.50 a week - as part of council's 2012-13 Budget.
Describing the budget as tough but responsible, Lockyer Valley Mayor Steve Jones said council was expected to move back into surplus in the 2013/14 financial year. "This first budget of this new council has been especially challenging given our current circumstances," Cr Jones said.
"We've come a long way in restoring our region's roads and bridges to their previous state and we intend to spend around $90million in this current financial year to continue the work. All told, our road restoration program will total $280million."
The budget, which was brought down yesterday, included $15.6million for replacing and repairing council's assets, $1.7million towards improving waste services, and $4.1million towards improving customer service and financial systems.
"The name Lockyer Valley is now out and about. Given time, what happened to us last year will turn into a positive for the region," Cr Jones said.
