The Beagle Editor
There’s been some serious discussion occurring about how Local NSW Councils General Rates could, or will be calculated in the future, as we all know local Councils in NSW are thirsty for money always dreaming up ways to increase income streams. Presently rates are calculated using unimproved capital values, vacant blocks generally, average sale prices of any particular areas lands are the basis of the rate charging formulas generally. What’s being talked about by the various Local Council Associations is basing the rate charging formulas on Improved Capital Values. It seems at least one of our Local Councillors supports that way of charging for Council Rates. If the charging process or formula was to be changed the state government would also be involved as changes to the NSW Local Government Act or wording of the Act would be required. The NSW State Government has the final say about the rules that NSW Councils are able to conduct themselves. But all residents of Local Council Areas of NSW need to be aware changes to the way Council Rates are levied are very likely in the future and the State Government is aware of what’s been occurring. The NSW State Government are looking for ways to reduce total grant funding amounts to all NSW Local Council’s, supporting the users pays ideals.
Allan Brown
Catalina
