The councillors voted unanimously to endorse the document for the next year at a special meeting on Monday evening. 

Councillor Mike Neoh said it was a responsible budget.

“It’s been a tough budget for councillors,” he said. “In terms of the increase this year we will never have enough money to invest in our assert renewal so we have to make sure we are responsible about that. This year is a starting point for that. In the coming years we will still have to reinvest in our assets.” 

Cr Kylie Gaston said the budget process had been “rigorous” and difficult decisions had to be made.

She said she was pleased money would be made available from the small infrastructure fund for a petanque site at Lake Pertobe and to the Dennington Bowls Club for parking upgrades.

Cr Tony Herbert said the council wanted to be forward-thinking and project driven.

“When you are constantly talking and looking a the finances, it does it make incredibly difficult for you to move forward and build a lot of the projects that the community expects of us,” he said.

“It’s a constant battle of trying to provide value for money at every opportunity.” 

The $89.1-million budget shows households in the municipality will pay about $70 a year more for garbage services.

The city’s waste management levy will increase by 24.1 per cent from $287 to $356 in 2018/19, largely due to the uncertainty around the recycling industry.

Corangamite shire had a $63.50 increase, while Moyne’s charges will increase by about $15. After the budget was put out for public comment five submissions were lodged. 

A council report said councillors considered the submissions, which raised questions and suggestions about funding, event charges, the cost of the city centre renewal  and marketing.

No changes were made.