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Council proposes 1.9 per cent rate rise for 2017/18 financial year
Whyalla City Council is continuing to acknowledge the challenges facing the Whyalla community, proposing a very minor rate increase as part of the 2017/18 budget.
The council has identified the need for a 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 mayor Lyn Breuer 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,” Ms Breuer 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.
“We certainly acknowledge the struggles some people are facing, however as a council we are required to continue servicing the community.
“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 1.9 per cent increase represents a very minimal yearly residential increase.
For example, a property valued at $1900 would be subject to a $30 rate increase for the financial year, equating to approximately $0.58c per week.
“Rate revenue ensures the council can continue to offer valued services to the community, such as the Whyalla Public Library, the cemetery, airport, and many other important services that the council offers,” Ms Breuer said.
“Rates also go towards maintaining and upgrading the city’s assets, such as roads and footpaths, playgrounds, parks and reserves, and sporting facilities, street signage, and much more.”
A rate increase of 1.9 per cent makes Whyalla City Council’s proposed rate increase the lowest in the region, with many councils in the region proposing rate increases of about 3 per cent or above.