The Shire of Campaspe councillors agreed to declare a special rate and charge on the Echuca Commercial and Industrial Area (This means Businesses Owners).  This is to raise 2.7 million dollars over 5 years, amounts to be charged are capped at $10,000.  The 2.7 million is an approximant depending on property values.  Why should business owners be slugged extra rates to a committee (section 86 Special Committee of Council)? A lot of business owners are already struggling due to circumstances beyond their control. If the business owners have to pay this amount who will really have to pay?  Yes that's right every day people like you and me - individuals that live and shop in our local community the businesses would have to pass it on.  One figure given to me was that it will cost each household in Echuca around $500.  Straight from the councils minutes -  "This amount is for the purpose of "defraying" expenses of advertising, promotion, management, business development and incidental expenses associated with the encouragement of commerce and tourism in Echuca." This petition is against Echuca Businesses footing the bill. It is a great idea to raise money but there is other ways to get funds other than from the local businesses that already give to local charities and causes. When businesses receive their letter in the mail I'm suggesting that they look at it closely, and if you do not want to support it then put in a formal objection to the Shire of Campaspe.  If its not formal then it does not count and 50% plus one need to object, by not agreeing or signing this petition does not count.  Stop increasing the rates in Echuca...... Thankyou for taking the time to read this petition.