THE NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has approved Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council’s application for a rate rise of 18 per cent per year for three years.

“IPART has thoroughly reviewed our application, considered the feedback that they received from the community, and approved the application in full,” says Mayor Kenrick Winchester.

“Our application was for the middle option of the three scenarios presented to the community. Council chose this option in recognition of the significant feedback we received both about how difficult increasing rates would be on the community, but also how important council services are to the community, particularly in our rural and more remote areas.’

“Council is also extending the additional $40 pensioner rebate that was previously available only to Queanbeyan pensioners to all eligible pensioners in QPRC. That means that eligible pensioners will be able to receive rebates up to $460 off their general rates and water and sewer charges.

“This rate variation addresses our long-term financial sustainability and ensures we can keep providing valuable services like essential road maintenance and upgrades, providing community facilities, libraries, sports fields, parks, amenities and community events.

“While the rate variation increases the income Council receives, part of the plan to address financial sustainability is also implementing the required budget savings of $5.5m per year.

“In our budget this year, we prioritised funding for our local roads, but we did have to defer aspects of our asset renewal program and some new footpath, playground and environmental projects until we can afford it. We remain very reliant on grant funding for some of these important upgrades.”

Mayor Winchester says several projects have been deferred, including the Monaro Street Upgrade and Stage 2 of the Regional Sports Complex.

“Council will also be able to sell property assets when buildings become vacant after the new Council Cultural and Civic Precinct building is completed and staff are relocated,” he says.

The rate variation will be in place from July 1 and applies to the total pool of general rates that the council collects.