A last-minute addition of $15,000 to help Wangaratta Jazz Festival through changes has been included in the council’s 2017-18 budget.
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The extra money was one of 12 changes made from the draft budget before it was adopted by councillors at Monday’s special meeting.
The jazz festival will have four new artistic directors and new stages on Ford Street and Merriwa Park for the 2017 event.
Cr Ruth Amery supported allocating the extra money.
“We appreciate the jazz festival makes a significant contribution to the local economy, with many generous citizens opening their homes to accommodate their homes being an integral part of the festival,” she said. “It’s envisioned this addition funding will help ensure the jazz festival continues to grow and adapt.”
Cr Amery also praised the $72,000 allocated for a community space at Wangaratta Library, funded by grants, to convert old High Country Library Corporation office space and raised the possibility of relocating other resources to the city centre.
“Perhaps there is an opportunity for the council to reconsider relocating the toy library, which is currently located in Yarrunga,” she said.
“This project will only increase the popularity of this much-loved community hub.”
Cr Mark Currie was the only one to raise concerns, saying he wanted councillors to consider the future. “Having a look at the current liabilities and the current assets, in four years’ time I have great concerns with the capital works as it’s spelled out in here – it doesn’t necessarily put our liquidity in a great position,” he said.
The budget’s $1.4 million deficit was down from last year’s $4.9 million surplus.
The comments contradicted Mayor Ken Clarke’s statement the budget struck a good balance.
“I’m confident we are delivering a responsible budget and plan that focuses council resources on projects that will help our community grow,” he said.
Sporting facilities were some of the winners of the budget, which included $172,000 for lighting at the HP Barr Reserve’s second oval and $186,000 for female change rooms at Moyhu Recreation Reserve for players, umpires and trainers – funded with state government and council money.
“This will help female participation in sports like football, netball and cricket,” Cr Harry Bussell said.
“It’s a great example of the community driving a project that will help more people stay active and, as a father and grandfather of five girls, I’m very aware of the lack of facilities of some places.”