Wollongong residents have a range of choices when it comes to having their say on a proposed environmental levy which would fund vital projects through a community contract.
An advertising campaign is currently raising awareness about the proposal, and residents are encouraged to respond and give their views.
“We’ve set up a phone hotline - 4227 7323 - where people can record a message with their thoughts on the proposal,” said the Lord Mayor, Councillor Alex Darling.
“You can also visit our website, at www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au, to find out more about the proposed levy and email your views.”
Over the coming month Council representatives will visit neighbourhood committees to provide information on the projects and discuss the committees’ responses.
Information will also be available at community listening posts to be held at various locations across the city - details to be advertised. Anyone visiting the listening posts will be able to fill out a feedback form or give their verbal comments.
Cr Darling stressed the need for people to carefully consider the broader issues when deciding whether they would support a levy.
“Everyone’s initial response is that they don’t want to pay more rates, and that is perfectly understandable,” he said. “However, we also need to think about the future ramifications for our city if we decide now not to set aside money for some crucial works. If the levy is adopted, we will publish a community contract to guarantee that the funds raised through the levy are being spent on the agreed projects.”
The Lord Mayor emphasised that under the State Government’s rating structure, it is not possible for Council to charge every ratepayer a set amount for the environment levy. “The levy must be a percentage, not a flat fee,” he said. “However, if the levy was set at 4%, 68% of our ratepayers would pay less than $30 per year, and 97% pay less than $50.”
Council is expected to consider all submissions at its meeting in May.
For further info, contact: Environment and Health Division: Phone 4227 7111, Fax 4227-7277, Email mailbox@ wollongong.nsw.gov.au