Ballina rates to rise
Ballina Shire residents are in for a rate rise.
The State Government today determined local council rate applications for North Coast councils, and Ballina and Byron councils have been granted rate increases for 2007-08.
Richmond Valley’s application of 10.06 per cent has been deferred, pending further information from council, Minister for Local Government Paul Lynch said.
Ballina’s application of 7.15 per cent was approved (including rate-peg of 3.4 per cent).
Byron’s application of 8.39 per cent was approved (including rate-peg of 3.4 percent).
Mr Lynch said that under the Government’s policy of rate-pegging, the NSW Government sets a maximum rate increase.
However, councils have the flexibility to apply to the Minister for increases above the rate-peg provided they submit sound business plans and evidence of community support.
“Rate-pegging strikes a balance between protecting ratepayers from unchecked rate rises and the genuine need for some councils to fund essential infrastructure,” Mr Lynch said.
