Reduce residential rates by 25%

The New Management Plna should incorporate a reduction of residential rates by 25%.
Points to consider o The ability of residential rate payers to pay rates has diminished greatly over the last few years. This has been caused by increases in land values, increases in mortgage values, increases in interest rates, increases in first home owners and other similar factors. o Pressures placed on affordable housing. o The low benefit of the pensioner rebate to pensioners. o Rapidly rising residential rents. (Remember it is a breach of the Residential Tenancies Act to attempt to pass on to tenants rate increases). o The use of residential rate funds to fund council activities that are not directly related to households. o A shift away from user pays principles. o Flood damage and impacts cost Newcastle residents dearly. o This activity should be funded by increasing user fees and charges, cutting non core activities,and adjusting staff. o New funding streams could include a Honeysuckle levy, POPE fee and increased fine collection (by using more rangers).  

This online discussion forum has concluded. You can still browse the site but the discussion area will no longer accept new comments or votes.