GOULBURN Mulwaree may have been left alone in council reforms but it still deserves a leg up, says Mayor Geoff Kettle.
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The State Government promised amalgamated councils $10 million to help with infrastructure costs as part of the recent Fit for the Future reforms.
Cr Kettle said although Goulburn Mulwaree would stand alone, he'd still apply to the State for a $10m grant under its Stronger Communities fund.
"I still think we should get it although we weren't amalgamated," he told the Post on Tuesday.
He was speaking after the Government handed down its 2016/17 budget, predicting a $3.7 billion surplus next year.
The Mayor has written to Local Government Minister Paul Toole and Goulburn MP Pru Goward about the funding.
He is seeking $4 million for Goulburn's performing arts facility and $6m for the "health and wellbeing precinct". The latter covers upgrade of Victoria Park and the aquatic centre.
"It's a strong budget for NSW and they've come in with a decent surplus," Cr Kettle said.
"That's why I've lobbied strongly for the money. They have a forecast surpluses over a few years so now they can spend some money on the regions."
He also welcomed the State's $21.5m allocation for pavement repair and strengthening on the Hume Highway north and southbound between the Holcim overpass at Marulan and the Highland Way turnoff.
