Central Coast Council has issued a second survey about rate rise options following strong community feedback that there was no option in the first survey to express opposition to any rate rise at all.
The first survey only asked which of the two rate rises was preferred – 10 percent or 15 percent.
There’s now an additional question about the option of “no rate rise – rate peg only”, but ratepayers are still being forced to show a preference for either the 10 percent or 15 percent increase even if they tick the no rate rise option.
Council says it wouldn’t be viable to not increase rates as it would mean the cutting back of services.
Acting CEO, Rik Hart, said that he was closely monitoring the community sentiment as it was critical that voices were heard.
“Our very early and preliminary survey results are giving a strong indication that ratepayers feel restricted in their opportunity to express their views about the option of no rate rise at all,” Hart said.
“We have looked at less than 10 percent of the survey responses, as there is a lot of data to process with over 3,300 surveys completed.
“More than half the respondents in this small sample don’t want any rate rise … and we are certainly seeing some similar commentary in letters to my office and the Administrator’s Office.
“I can totally understand this viewpoint.
“However, I need to make it clear that no rate rise is not a viable option.
“Council needs a rate rise to repay the restricted funds spent on community infrastructure and services and to deliver a level of service to the community that ensures our assets and essential services are maintained.
“I urge all community members to keep an open mind, consider the information put before them, and to provide their feedback before February 1.
“We are committed to capturing as much community feedback as we can in order for the Council to consider whether or not to formally apply to IPART for a Special Variation of the rates.”
More than 3,300 people responded to the first survey and a report on results of both the first and second survey will be made public, and the feedback will be reported to Council and IPART, including feedback stating a lack of support for a Special Variation.
It is expected that the report will be presented to Council’s February 8 meeting, to then proceed with a rate rise application to IPART.
The IPART will make its decision in May, when it considers applications from other NSW councils for a rate rise.
Residents and ratepayers can also provide feedback directly to IPART via their website until Monday, March 1.
Sue Murray