By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
CITY of Greater Geelong will set its lowest rate increase for six years when it unveils its budget next week, a council source has told the Independent.
The source said rates would rise 4.2 to 4.3 per cent, down from a 5.1 per cent hike last year.
Borough of Queenscliffe has projected a 4.5 per cent rise for the next financial year, while Golden Plains Shire has proposed a 7.73 per cent jump. Surf Coast Shire is yet to reveal its increase.
The annual rate increase has been a source of criticism for council in recent years, with rises of around five per cent.
Government imposts including the federal carbon tax and state landfill levy have contibuted to the hikes.
Next financial year council will be forced to include a Victorian fire services levy on its rates notice. The levy will be at least $100 and average around $140 per domestic property.
Mayor Keith Fagg was keeping his cards close to his chest about the anticipated rate rise but promised it would be seen as “responsible”.
“I can’t reveal the final figure until the budget discussion next week,” Cr Fagg said.
“We are not like State Government – we can’t announce these things in advance in local government until it formally goes to the council chamber because it pre-empts any decision.”
Deputy mayor and finance portfolio holder Cr Stretch Kontelj said council had worked hard to bring in a surplus budget while restraining any rate increase.
“We’re conscious that people are doing it tough and we want to play our part in easing the squeeze.”
Cr Kontelj said, as a Barwon Water board member, he had experienced the utility’s commitment to keep rates to a zero percentage increase.
“We can’t quite achieve that in council but we hope people are pleased with our endeavours.”
Cr Kontelj said most ratepayers realised the revamped fire services levy was a State Government fee even though it would be included on council rate notices.
The budget to be released next week would be a draft and open for public consultation before being ratified by council in June, he said.
