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For immediate release
Wednesday, June 01, 2016
Minimal rate rise to support the community
Whyalla City Council has acknowledged the challenges facing the Whyalla community, and is proposing a very minor rate increase as part of the 2016/17 budget.
The council has identified the need for a minimal 1.9 per cent rate increase, which will ensure the provision of council’s services to the community continues.
A 1.9 per cent rate increase in the first year, and a 2 per cent increase in the second, and subsequent years will ensure the current services and facilities offered by the council can be maintained.
This model will also contribute to maintaining a steady surplus for the life of the council’s Long Term Financial Plan.
Whyalla City Council acting mayor Tom Antonio said the council had strongly considered the impact current uncertainty surrounding the future of Arrium was having on the community.
“Throughout all of our budget discussions, council officers and the council’s elected members have been mindful of the financial challenges this community is facing,” Mr Antonio said.
“A rate increase of 1.9 per cent is very minimal, and will ensure the council is able to continue providing its valued services, as well as undertaking its capital projects program to replace and renew existing assets, and install or develop new assets.”
Mr Antonio said as part of preliminary budget discussions, the council had worked hard to determine possible cost saving activities, with savings made throughout operational areas.
“We certainly acknowledge the struggles some people are facing, however as a council we are required to continue servicing the community,” Mr Antonio said.
“Unfortunately as a council we also incur increased costs, such as the cost of electricity and water, so to be able to propose a low rate increase of 1.9 per cent highlights the council’s commitment to support the community through this difficult time.”
A public consultation event will be held at Whyalla Public Library on Wednesday, June 15 from 6.30pm, giving members of the public a chance to discuss the budget and ask question of staff before submissions close at 5pm on Wednesday, June 22.