FARRER MP Sussan Ley has thrown down the challenge to independent candidate and Albury mayor Kevin Mack for a debate on the levels of funding to the city from the federal government in its latest term in office.
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"Kevin also knows full well a budget is a plan for the future and this is exactly what the treasurer outlined this week.
"If it is cash Mr Mack wants, the Albury local government area has received tens of millions of dollars in direct assistance from our government in the last three years.
"And Farrer alone has had more than a billion dollars in Commonwealth investment.
"Of particular interest for the mayor will also be the remaining $2 million for council to finally complete the Lavington Oval redevelopment."
The project was the recipient of $4 million from the federal government with an initial $2 million instalment paid to council.
Ms Ley said the $3.2 million commitment to the Albury-Wodonga regional deal was also significant.
"If well-managed by the councils, it has the potential to unlock tens of millions in future projects," she said.
"This budget allocates $4.4 million for Albury Council to maintain local roads, as well as $8 million for a feasibility study into fast rail between here and Melbourne.
"We also saw confirmation of the $14 million for Albury-Wodonga Health and our $1.9 million contribution for additional accommodation at Hilltop."
Mr Mack said he stood by his comments.
"My comments related to this budget, but I am happy to debate any other issues she makes claims to at any time or place," he said.
"This budget is a consequence of being in a safe seat.
"I just can't understand where she sees these billions of dollars that have been delivered to Farrer for the last three years.
"Where are they? I would love to know."
