Redland City Council has rationalised rating categories in its 2016-17 Budget to provide a simpler system that allows for consistence across the City.
The changes, adopted today, will see the rate in the dollar on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands decreased to bring them in line with mainland communities, while the same minimum rate will be adopted across the City.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the move – which has seen the number of ratings categories fall from 45 four years ago to 13 – would bring balance to the rating system and pave the way for increased infrastructure spending on the islands.
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“This can been seen through this year’s budgeting of $2.47 million for the green seal road program on the islands, with the aim of extending that program further,’’ Cr Williams said.
“This rating category change, which was started four years ago, was inevitable as we mature as a city. While there will be an impact for some with the minimum category 1a rate across the City increasing to $901 – up from $882 on the mainland and $624 on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands – this reform will bring consistency with one approach for all.
“Its effect will be offset on the islands by the lowering of their rate in the dollar to match that on the mainland and the fact the State Government’s latest land valuations were generally static on the islands compared with significant increases for many parts of the mainland.
“The result is a level playing field for all ratepayers, with owners of property on the islands now embraced on the same terms as their neighbours on the mainland.’’
Division 5 Councillor for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Cr Mark Edwards said Council had worked hard to minimise the impact on the islands and deliver a Budget for the entire community.
He said this year’s Budget included important community projects as part of the City’s
$77 million capital program.
“This Budget responds to residents’ wishes for island roads to be sealed faster and for improved infrastructure,’’ he said.
“Besides the $2.47 million for the green seal program, important projects such as the Macleay Island ramp carpark and Macleay Island’s Russell Terrace seawall and asbestos capping have been funded to the tune of $3.26 million and $1.5 million respectively.’’
The green seal road program on Coochiemudlo Island has been allocated $1.1 million.
Go to our website for full Budget information.
