Yass Valley Council is asking ratepayers for input on a proposed rate increase, known as a special rate variation, of 10.9 percent in 2015/16.
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The proposed rate increase would fund urgent road maintenance and timber bridge replacement, and ensure that existing services which have been impacted by a reduction in federal funding are maintained.
On average, the 10.9 percent is equal to an additional $79 per year or $1.52 per week for residential properties, $224 per year or $4.32 per week for farmland and $233 per year or $4.47 per week for business properties.
Council’s General Manager David Rowe said any rate increase is undesirable, however, council must consider increasing its revenue base to ensure that an appropriate level of service is maintained for the community.
“All ratepayers will receive an “important notice” over the coming days explaining the reasons behind the proposed rate increase. Without this increase Council will not have sufficient funds to undertake essential maintenance on our roads and timber bridges and will have to consider reducing existing services,” Mr Rowe said.
Council is holding two community forums to give ratepayers the opportunity to find out more and ask questions about the proposal.
They will be held at Yass Memorial Hall on January 27 from 6.30pm to 8.00pm and Murrumbateman Country Inn on January 29 from 6.30pm to 8.00pm. There will be a formal presentation at 7.00pm on both nights.
Comments and feedback should be received by Council by 5pm on February 4 either via email to council@yass.nsw.gov.au or by letter to Council at 209 Comur Street, Yass.
