PORT Stephens Council will invest $25.2 million in major projects across our local government area in 2018-2019 to improve the quality of facilities for our community.

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Roads, drainage, libraries, parks, playgrounds, pools, holiday parks and sporting facilities are all set to benefit in the coming financial year.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says it’s an exciting time for Port Stephens.

“This year we are investing more than $25 million in projects for Port Stephens, from much needed upgrades to roads and drains, to new paths, playgrounds and much more,” Mayor Palmer said.

About a third of the funding ($8 million) will come from rates, fees and charges. The rest will come from other revenue sources including grants ($5.6 million), as well as holiday parks, property investments, developer contributions, donations and dividends from Newcastle Airport ($11.6m combined).

“This Council has been proactive in seeking alternative funding sources to pay for the works, but there’s only so much we can do without asking ratepayers for more funding to increase our investment,” Mayor Palmer said.

“We look lean in comparison to our local Government neighbours like Lake Macquarie and Newcastle. They have the capacity to spend $100 million on projects each year thanks to previous special rate variations.”

“Our community has been asking for better roads, more pathways, revitalised town centres, more recreation facilities and increased services — and that’s exactly what we will deliver if any increase in rates is approved,” he said.