Keep rates as low as possible
A core component of a responsible and forward thinking council is to always look to minimise the burdens it places on its constituents.
There are several pathways available to council to assist ratepayers in this regard. One of the major opportunities is to continually look to keep council rates to a minimum. Whilst any overall finance considerations need to balance the many and varied requirements of the council budget, a core principle should always be to keep rates as low as possible.
Efficiencies, smart use of council officer’s time as well as the reduction of red and green tape all contribute to lower costs of running a council.
These matters should be high on any council agenda and PALs will continue to advocate in this area as it is a major contributor to staff costs.
Council contribution to a healthy and vibrant landscape
As it currently stands landowners that own property in the Green Wedge consistently provide the stunning landscape and vistas free of charge to those to enjoy and pass through the rural parts of this Shire.
PALs support and advocate for a rate subsidy or rate reduction for rural properties. Rural landowners, who currently pay all costs associated with the maintenance, protection and ongoing delivery of such a beautiful landscape should be eligible for the subsidy or reduction to demonstrate and support the invaluable service they provide to the public.