City of Onkaparinga approves zero rate increase in draft budget

City of Onkaparinga Mayor Erin Thompson says the decision responds to the impacts of COVID-19 and comes in the wake of a range of relief measures already introduced in April.

“We’ve worked hard to identify new savings and deliver a draft budget to help ease the financial strain on our ratepayers.

“We’ve also aimed for a draft budget that is reflective of our residents’ expectations and needs, delivering essential services and stimulus projects for our strong, vibrant communities.

“The draft $224.3 million Budget 2020-21 will help council deliver more than 200 services and projects to more than 170,000 residents.

“We’ll be investing in our city and stimulating our local economy with $45.3 million in capital projects including:

• Constructing the Witton Bluff Base Trail
• Upgrading Christie Downs’ Morton Road Reserve
• Implementing the Wilfred Taylor Reserve Masterplan
• Redeveloping the Port Noarlunga Sports Complex (subject to external funding)
• Upgrading Aldinga Sports Park in partnership with the federal government
• Upgrading Port Noarlunga’s Wearing Street Arts and Aquatics Precinct (subject to external funding)
• Upgrading Hackham South East road and stormwater infrastructure amid new residential development.”

Community engagement on the draft Budget 2020-21 is scheduled to commence from 3-24 June via City of Onkaparinga’s Yoursay page.