Residents of Sydney’s Northern Beaches are voicing strong opposition to a proposed 39.6 percent rate hike put forward by the local council. The proposed increase would result in an average rise of $673 for households and $1,611 for businesses, according to a recent community survey.
Liberal MPs James Griffin and Matt Cross, representing the areas of Manly and Davidson, have criticized the proposal, calling it “out of touch with the community.” In a joint statement, they expressed concerns over the financial strain it would place on local households and small businesses, warning that it would only add to the growing cost of living pressures.
Local Independent Federal MP Dr Scamps was unavailable to respond to online activist reports alleging that she and other Teals were supportive of fellow ‘Green-Teal Independents’ members in Council.
Ms Zali Steggall MP in a Statement to KNL urged all local governments proposing rate increases to do so in a manageable way so that residents are not unfairly burdened and prioritise cost savings.
” Given this, it’s disappointing to see local state Liberal MPs focusing on political posturing rather
than fighting for increased funding for our local governments from State Government.
I agree that the current model is unsustainable and unfairly falls on residents. It’s essential that
NSW receive a fairer proposition of GST revenue, and I will continue to advocate for that with
Federal Government” said Ms Steggall.
Local residents are rallying against the rate hike, with some already taking to the streets to voice their opposition. A protest is scheduled for tonight at Council Chambers in Dee Why at 5.30pm during the council meeting where the rate rise will be discussed. Support for the protest has also been growing on social media, with members of the Northern Beaches Peoples Voice Facebook page urging others to join.
The Northern Beaches Council, which covers suburbs such as Dee Why, Brookvale, Balgowlah, Mona Vale, Frenchs Forest, and Avalon Beach, has cited increasing financial pressures in maintaining services and facilities as the reason behind the proposed hike.
The rate rise proposal follows the results of a community survey. The survey found that 51 percent of ratepayers supported a smaller increase of 10.7 percent, while 49 percent favored a larger hike of between 31.1 and 46 percent over three years. After reviewing the survey results, the council decided to move forward with the 39.6 percent increase.
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