Geelong council is encouraging residents to apply to join a community reference group for its Special Rate and Charge (SRC) schemes.
SRC schemes a funding model for infrastructure schemes where property owners who directly benefit from upgrades like footpaths, street lights and sealed roads contribute financially to their construction.
Participants in the reference group would attend a two-and-a-half hour meeting in August to provide City officers with their views on the schemes.
Councillor Trent Sullivan is of the council’s City Services, Capital Works, Parks and Gardens portfolio.
Cr Sullivan said SRC schemes delivered valuable infrastructure to older neighbourhoods, whose developers were not required to provide such things.
“Some of the older developments of Greater Geelong have considerable infrastructure needs, such as sealed roads, footpaths, kerbs and channels, and stormwater drains,” he said.
“By enabling contributions from both the City and those who directly benefit, we’re able to get on with the job of enhancing our neighbourhoods faster.”
Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said hearing from the community about infrastructure upgrades was important.
“If you live or own property in Greater Geelong, we want to hear what you have to say about Special Rate and Charge schemes,” Mayor Kontelj said.
“These schemes allow us to make real improvements to local communities, but it’s so important that we get our approach to them right, which is why we’re convening this community reference group.”
Visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/special-rates-charges-procedure-reference-community-group to learn more the community reference group or apply to participate.
