The proposed Maroondah City Council budget for 2007/08 is now available for public comment. As a councillor I have requested additional information in regard to the operational details of the budget to ensure that I am comfortable with the direction of council.

The public exhibition of the Council Budget was discussed and passed at the 18th of June Council Meeting, after some clarification in regard to the processes that are required.

Speaking after the May 21 meeting, Cr Alex Makin said the stand-off was not planned but reflected widespread concern that the document lacked detail.

“There’s been some disquiet,” Cr Makin said. “We’ve been briefed about the council’s strategic plan, but not about operational details. We don’t know where exactly the money will be spent.”

There are a number of positive initiatives within this year’s budget including the announcement of a $1 million sustainability fund to tackle issues relating to water conservation.

Public discussion and scrutiny over the budget should be encouraged and submissions can be lodged until Friday the 8th of June. All submitters are able to reinforce their written submission with an oral presentation at a special council meeting on the 13th of June.

The proposed council budget and council plan can be downloaded from the Maroondah City Council website www.maroondah.vic.gov.au.