By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
CASEY council rates won’t rise by as much as predicted in the recently approved budget following the federal government’s repeal of the Carbon Tax.
The council’s planned 2014-15 rate rise of 6.3 per cent will be reduced by 0.4 per cent to 5.9 per cent after the City of Casey resolved to revise its budget to allow costs allocated for the Carbon Tax to flow back to ratepayers.
Casey Mayor Geoff Ablett confirmed the rate cut on Friday.
“The City of Casey is one of the first Victorian councils to respond quickly and pass back savings from the tax repeal to its ratepayers,” he said.
“We understand the financial pressures facing our residents and that’s why we’ve taken the unprecedented step to revise our budget to allow savings to flow back to our residents as quickly as possible.”
The council’s $78 million investment into community infrastructure, roads and parks – outlined it its recently approved budget – will remain unaffected by the change.
“Costs of living pressures are real for Casey residents and the Carbon Tax drove the price of many items up including electricity, a range of grocery items and council rates,” Cr Ablett said.
“This partial refund is a down payment from council with the potential for more rate relief once we have an idea of other savings coming through.
“The reduction is a small but symbolic way in which council is keeping faith with the community.
“The decision shows council is transparent, honest and financial responsible by passing on savings from the repeal of the Carbon Tax immediately to Casey residents.”
The Mayor said 2014-15 rates notices will now be issued later as a result of the change, with the first instalment for payment delayed until October.
Under the Local Government Act, the council is now required to exhibit its revised budget for 28 days to allow public submissions.
The council will adopt the revised budget at a special council meeting on 25 August.
