Information Kiosks to discuss Special Rate Variation projects
Wingecarribee Shire Council will hold a series of public Information Kiosks starting Wednesday 20 January to discuss the ‘Investing in our future’ projects that are proposed to be funded under the different scenarios.
The Information Kiosks follow Council’s unanimous decision in December to notify the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) of its intention to apply for a Special Rate Variation.
Council’s General Manager Ann Prendergast explained the purpose of the kiosks.
“These latest round of information sessions are an opportunity for residents to learn more about the Investing in our future proposal and the specific transport, building, park, environment and stormwater projects that Council would address as priorities under each of the three different funding scenarios,” she said.
Applying for a Special Rate Variation was a key component of Council’s Fit for the Future proposal delivered to the NSW State Government last year, with increased funding to be earmarked to community assets such as roads, footpaths and drains.
The decision by the Council follows a report compiled following initial rounds of engagement showing the majority of the Shire’s residents support some level of rate increase above the rate peg amount.
The first Information Kiosk will be held Wednesday 20 January 2016 from 4pm to 6pm at the Mittagong Welcome Centre, located at 62 Main Street, Mittagong.
A follow-up Kiosk will be held on Wednesday 27 January at Council’s Moss Vale Civic Centre located in Elizabeth Street Moss Vale, from 4pm to 6pm.
“I encourage as many residents as possible to attend one of the Information Kiosks to learn more about each scenario, the additional projects that would be funded and how any increase would affect them,” Ms Prendergast said.
Documents detailing the three funding scenarios are outlined in the draft Delivery Program, draft Strategic Asset Management Plan and draft Long Term Financial Plan can be found at Council’s Moss Vale, Bowral and Mittagong libraries, the Moss Vale Civic Centre and online at www.yoursaywingecarribee.com.au/SRV until 1 February 2016.
Council will reconvene in February following the 53-day community exhibition period to determine the preferred scenario and subsequent final rate increase amount which would be submitted to IPART.
A decision from IPART is expected in May 2016.
For more information or to ask a question visit www.yoursaywingecarribee.com.au/SRV or phone 4868 0888.