However he warned ratepayers may face service cuts next year in a bid to make Armidale Dumaresq Council “fit for the future”.

Social welfare services being mulled for cuts next year include disability, volunteer, youth, dementia respite and aged programs. 

He also warned the tourism bus service operating Monday to Saturday from the Armidale Visitor Information Centre must break even or find other funds.

Council may also sell land in a bid to balance the budget.

“Councillors recognise the financial pressure on the community and are committed to reviewing the delivery program commitments,” Mr Lockyer said.

But Councillor Jim Maher said he was disappointed by the outcome of some of the budget recommendations. 

“Some of the most vulnerable people are affected,” Cr Maher said.

“I don’t want to see these people fall through the cracks.

“These decisions are made by Council’s perceived financial issues.” 

Mr Lockyer said Council was preparing for the threat of merger in the face of the state government’s Fit for the Future review after deciding to go it alone. 

To do so, they recommend changes to “service delivery levels”.

“These services are still there … however we are looking at service reviews,” Mr Lockyer said. 

The 2015/16 budget also confirmed Council plans to borrow $3.2 million for the construction of a supporting wall for Dumaresq Dam and $3 million for the development of a roundabout and industrial land area at the airport.