We, the undersigned residents, ratepayers, tenants, business owners, farmers, graziers and supporters of the Glen Innes Severn community, respectfully petition Glen Innes Severn Council to adopt a fairer implementation of the approved 48.3% Special Rate Variation.

WHY THIS PETITION?
IPART has approved a maximum rate increase of 48.3%.

Council currently proposes to apply this increase over three years through rate rises of 21.5%, 12% and 9%.

IPART has confirmed that Council has the option to spread the approved increase over a longer period of up to ten years.

WE BELIEVE
·       A 48.3% increase over three years places significant financial pressure on households.

·       Pensioners, retirees and residents on fixed incomes will be disproportionately affected.

·       Increased rates may contribute to higher rents and housing costs.

·       Local businesses face rising operating costs.

·       Farmers and graziers are already managing increased costs, seasonal challenges and economic uncertainty.

·       Council should balance financial sustainability with the wellbeing of the community.

WE REQUEST THAT COUNCIL
1.       Implement the approved 48.3% Special Rate Variation over ten years rather than three years.

2.       Adopt annual increases of approximately 4.03% per year.

3.       Prepare a revised Long Term Financial Plan reflecting this approach.

4.       Undertake meaningful community consultation before adopting future rating resolutions.

This proposal would still deliver the full increase approved by IPART while reducing financial shock to households, businesses and primary producers throughout the Glen Innes Severn community.