My name is Aleta Moriarty, and I am a concerned member of the Geelong community. I am alarmed at the recent hike in council rates by up to 15%, particularly considering the drop in property values in several Geelong suburbs. I want to do something about this. I have started a petition but have also decided to stand to make a change on this. Please read and sign.

We, the undersigned residents of Geelong, are deeply concerned about the reports of recent and significant increases in council rates despite evidence that property values in several suburbs have declined. For example, values have declined in Highton this year by 0.6% and Belmont by about 2%. 

Despite these declines, many residents report experiencing substantial increases in their council rates, which appears contradictory to the understanding that rates are linked to property valuations.

The State Government has set a rate cap of 2.75%, yet numerous residents have reported rate increases exceeding this. This raises serious concerns about the council’s compliance with the rate cap and the transparency of its rate-setting processes.

The burden of these increases is significant, especially in the current economic climate and cost of living crisis. Many residents are struggling with the higher rates, which seem unjustified given the decreased property value and spiralling costs.

We respectfully petition the Geelong Council to:

- Provide a detailed explanation of how rates are calculated and why significant increases have occurred despite falling property values in certain areas.
- Clarify how rate increases are determined and justify any increases that exceed the State Government’s rate cap of 2.75%.
- Review and reassess the current rates to ensure they accurately reflect property valuations and comply with state regulations.
- Ensure effectiveness of spending; in particular, there was a $130 million budget black hole last year.
- Stop selling off public assets that ratepayers have paid for, like Belmont Bowling Alley. 
Take immediate action to address and rectify errors or discrepancies in the rate-setting process that unfairly impact residents.

We, the undersigned, demand transparency, accountability, and fairness from our local council in assessing and applying council rates.

This petition is authorized by Aleta Moriarty, candidate for Barrabool Hills, 14 Rigo St, Belmont, 3216