Politics
Essendon Infrastructure Bond Referendum to Decide Funding for Roads and Job Training Sites
Voters face a July 2026 measure that would authorize city borrowing for projects tied directly to local employment programs and maintenance of streets used for daily travel.
How we reported this
The ballot measure before Essendon residents would authorize the city to issue up to 50 million in bonds for road repairs and new workforce facilities. The proposal appears as Question 3 on the referendum scheduled for 15 July 2026 and would affect every household that relies on municipal services or seeks local employment support.
Why the vote arrives now
City documents show that deferred maintenance on major arterials has increased by 18 percent since the 2023 budget cycle. At the same time the 2025 workforce development plan identified gaps in training capacity that leave 1,200 residents on waiting lists for certification courses each quarter. The referendum combines these two needs into a single borrowing package that requires voter approval under the local charter.
Passage would direct 30 million toward resurfacing 12 kilometres of collector roads that connect residential zones to industrial parks. Another 15 million would expand two existing training centres with additional classroom space and equipment. The remaining funds would cover administrative costs and a contingency reserve listed in the city clerk's filing.
Daily effects for residents
Commuters who use the affected roads would see scheduled closures during construction phases projected to begin in the first quarter of 2027. Local advocates note that improved pavement could reduce vehicle repair costs for drivers who travel those routes multiple times each week. Workers seeking new certifications would gain access to expanded course offerings at the training sites, with the city stating that enrolment capacity would increase by 400 spots annually if the bond passes.
The legislation states that repayment would come from a dedicated portion of the property tax levy already collected by the city, spreading costs across all ratepayers rather than introducing a new tax. Policy analysts say the annual impact per household would average 42 based on current assessed values, though exact figures depend on future property assessments.
Ballots will be mailed to registered voters on 1 July. City election officials have scheduled two public information sessions at the civic centre on 10 July and 12 July to explain the measure language and the projects listed in the accompanying voter guide. Results are expected to be certified by 22 July.