THE adoption of the Bass Coast Shire Council annual budget 2025/26 was not a unanimous decision at the last council meeting on Wednesday, June 18, with Cr Ron Bauer and Cr Meg Edwards voting against the recommendation.
Despite the annual budget passing with the vote of the remaining seven councillors in favour, Cr Bauer spoke persuasively to the motion by opposing the $10 million underlying deficit and questioning the allocation of funds, particularly the lack of funds for Cowes Recreation Reserve.
“Can you hear it? Well, here it comes. The ghosts of the last council,” he said. Cr Bauer argued that the current budget mirrors the previous council’s plans, continuing an outdated agenda rather than adapting to present needs and despite vocal advocacy for the Cowes Recreation Reserve from himself and Cr O’Brien, the reserve only received a paltry $440,000.
“The Cowes Recreation Reserve should have at least $1 million per year,” he said. “You cannot tell me that we couldn’t find $1 million worth of savings that could have been allocated.”
Cr Bauer also questioned the $3 million allocated for the Cowes Streetscape after that project had already received $8 million in federal funding.
Ultimately, while the budget passed, it has left significant questions about priorities and responsibility, as Cr Bauer articulates, “Item 10 authorises the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to demand payment of and recover rates and charges as declared in the 2026 budget,” he addressed.
“I do not see why we need to recover the states' ESVL. No, let’s call it what it is, a tax – they want the money, they collect it. I strongly oppose this measure.”
Cr O'Brien also expressed disappointment regarding the 80% differential in land rates, arguing it puts local farmers at a disadvantage compared to surrounding areas with lower rates. Cr Temby echoed these sentiments, as well as calling attention to over $4 million budgeted for sports, urging that a more balanced distribution of funding is essential for environmental protection.
Cr Meg Edwards didn’t speak to the motion but voted against the recommendation.
