Maitland Council's spending plans up for comment

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Maitland City Council won't be going on too much of a spending spree without the community knowing about it, with their proposed spendings for the next financial year up for comment.

The draft operational plan for 2017/2018 outlines what the council intend to spend $148 million on, including $13 million set aside for road repairs.

The plan underwent an expansion after the failed merger with Dungog, meaning more money can be spent within the Maitland council area.

Mayor Peter Blackmore is calling on the community to make comment and have a look at where their ratepayer dollar is going, as well as government funding.

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"You've got to be able to show that you are listening to your community, that you are adding value for their rate dollar, and of course the fact that we did not have to merge meant that we could then concentrate more on the city and the residents of Maitland," said Peter Blackmore.

$55 million is derived from rate revenue with the money to be spent on new and existing infrastructure, community engagement and events and environmental activities.

Mayor Peter Blackmore says almost always "if people can see it, they will form an opinion. They're either in favour of it or they're not in favour of it. But they can see that we are putting money into projects".

It's the council's largest budget to date, also incorporating crime prevention strategies affordable housing and the Council's new website.

Feedback can be provided until May 15 and the documents can be viewed at www.maitandyoursay.com.au