Shire of Murray backs an almost four per cent rate rise to fix its huge budget deficit
The Shire of Murray council has backed a 3.95 per cent rates increase to help fix its multi-million dollar budget deficiency.
The council voted on Thursday to advertise a rate rise of 3.95 per cent for the upcoming financial year, adding $57 to the average rates bill.
An officer’s report said Murray had kept the rates relatively low over the past few years due to the “economical climate experienced” but this had put pressure on the shire.
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It comes as the Shire’s budget deficiency sits at an estimated $20.6 million.
“This low level of revenue increase has put severe pressure on the ability of the shire to maintain the same service levels to meet the community’s expectations as delivered in previous years,” the report read.
“In consideration of the latest CPI results (3.4 per cent) and the funding required to meet the aspirations and deliver objectives contained in council’s plan for the future a general 3.95 per cent increase in rates is recommended.”
Residential rates are expected to help pay for services and achieving strategic community objectives.
There has also been a mark-up on the rate charged for unimproved value industrial and mining properties with an increase of 7.14 per cent.
The rates increase is now being advertised for public comment for 21 days with council to be presented with the community’s feedback before determining the rates for the 2024-25 financial year.
It comes after the City of Mandurah approved its 2024-25 budget on Tuesday, which included a 3.98 per cent rate rise for residents.