Projects set for delays

By Melissa Grant
BIG dollar projects in Cardinia Shire could be delayed as the council looks to reduce its $42 million debt.
The council will consider prolonging the delivery of projects that fail to attract any funding from the State or Federal Governments.
Holm Park Road Reserve, Beaconsfield and a regional tennis centre in Webster Way, Pakenham are among the projects the council is seeking government grants for.
Central Ward councillor Brett Owen said the council would have to examine its options if it received inadequate funding from the State and Federal Governments.
“Unfortunately it’s a reality that if we don’t get the support we’re hoping for from the governments that we’ll have to prioritise,” he said.
Central Ward councillor Collin Ross said some crunch decisions would have to be made, but emphasised that projects would only be delayed because the amount of government funds needed was relatively small.
Council General Manager Corporate Services Neil Thorpe said the council would review its forward capital works program come budget time.
“The timing of the delivery of any projects that are subject to external funding will be reviewed if grant applications are unsuccessful,” he said.
Cardinia Ratepayers and Residents’ Association (CRRA) president Gloria O’Connor said the council needed to carefully consider what projects it could and could not afford in the current climate.
“I think things this year are going to be tight for everybody,” she said.
“It needs to be considered if council money can be poured into projects in the hope that funding will come.”