Council wants public feedback on draft budget

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A draft $64.5 million budget that provides almost $10 million for roads and bridges and another $3 million for town and village streets has been adopted by Kyogle Council for public comment.

The draft budget also includes $2 million this year and another $3 million in the forward estimates so Council can fast track its watermains replacement program in response to ongoing issues with ageing infrastructure.

Kyogle Council Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said the draft budget was aimed at strengthening essential services, supporting emerging needs, and positioning the community for the future.

She said Council had worked hard to ensure the draft budget was responsible while still delivering the services and projects the community needed now and into the future.

“By releasing this draft budget for public comment, we’re inviting residents to provide feedback, Cr Mulholland said.

“Their feedback is essential in shaping a final budget that reflects what matters most to our community.”

The draft budget provides $3.948 million for regional road projects including $2 million for the Clarence Way this year and a further $3 million in the forward estimates, $4.257 million for rural local roads, and $1.635 million for bridge renewals.

The draft budget also provides $7 million this year and $17 million in the forward estimates to build a new sewerage treatment plant for Kyogle.

“Council is laying the groundwork for the future with this draft budget,” Cr Mulholland said.

“Council wants to secure a future where our infrastructure keeps pace with community needs and where the Kyogle LGA continues to attract people seeking both lifestyle and opportunity.”

The draft budget also sets aside:

  • $1.793 million for landfill improvements and quarry rehabilitation works
  • $187,146 in financial assistance and community donations
  • $614,285 for the library and mobile library
  • $1.013 million parks, gardens and village maintenance
  • $946,191 for the operation of Council’s three public pools
  • $992,300 for community and cultural services which includes the Roxy Gallery, the Visitor Information Centre and community services

The draft budget includes a 4.4 percent State Government-pegged general rate increase, plus increases of 4 per cent for domestic waste charges, 7 per cent for water charges and 6 per cent for sewer charges.

The draft budget is on display for public comment until 4pm 12 May 2026. Copies of the budget can be found at Council’s administration centre at 1 Stratheden Street, Kyogle, on Council’s website here, or at Wadeville store, Woodenbong Post Office, Tabulam Post Office, Cawongla store, Mallanganee Post Office, Wiangaree Post Office, and Bonalbo Post Office.

Written submissions will be accepted until 4pm 12 May 2026 and should be sent to the General Manager, PO Box 11, Kyogle, NSW 2474 or to council@kyogle.nsw.gov.au.