General News
9 July, 2024
Fee hold a ‘help to ease living costs’
FREEZING waste charges and limiting rate increases demonstrates a commitment to keeping the cost of living in Loddon Shire manageable for residents, according to Mayor Gavan Holt. Council last week adopted a budget that included a 2.75 per cent rate...
FREEZING waste charges and limiting rate increases demonstrates a commitment to keeping the cost of living in Loddon Shire manageable for residents, according to Mayor Gavan Holt.
Council last week adopted a budget that included a 2.75 per cent rate rise but kept waste charges the same as last year.
“We understand our community is experiencing cost-of-living demands,” he said.
“The 2.75 per cent rate cap is a balanced approach that allows us to meet our financial obligations while being mindful of the economic challenges our residents are facing.
“It is a measure of responsibility, ensuring that we do not overburden our ratepayers while still providing essential services.
“It’s important to note that there is an ongoing need for council to continue to revisit services and infrastructure and ensure their efficiency. We need to get the best value for money in how we deliver on community expectations, and external funding opportunities are a critical part of how we do that.”
Council’s budget expects to raise $13.1 million in rates and charges or 26 per cent of the shire’s income for the year with 70 per cent of anticipated revenue coming from government grants. “Ongoing financial support from other levels of government is vitally important,” he said.