Orange Council closes long list of reserve funds into liabilities or equity

Orange City Council has agreed to convert a long list of internal restrictions, including plant and vehicle replacement, library, parks and sportsgrounds, museum, gallery and other reserve lines, into liabilities where there is a recognised commitment or into equity, then close the reserves.

The list also included ageing and disability services, children’s services, future funds, heritage and tourism, insurance incentive bonus, community safety, Australia Day, Hazzard reduction reimbursement, acting classes, the NRD/Telopea Way intersection, environmental signage, DPI Noxious Weeds Management, land development mobile tower, CBD prog 385, quarry operations and electric car charging.

The resolution was passed without opposition at Orange City Council’s meeting on 16 June 2026. It changes how the council records money already tied to specific purposes, rather than creating a new charge for residents.

The move sits alongside a wider night of budget and property decisions. Councillors adopted the 2026/2027 operational plan and resourcing strategy, including the long-term financial plan, workforce management strategy, asset management strategy, Strategic Policies ST27 and ST28, the fees and charges schedule, and the 2026/2027 rating structure and expenditure.

Fees and charges are due to rise by 3%, subject to NSW Government changes and later variation processes. Councillors also questioned the use of a 3% CPI assumption in a budget year when inflation was higher.

The same meeting also approved a development application for 86 Summer Street and rejected the $950,000 funding allocation for the Redmond Place Air Hangar indoor playground fit-out.