Last night the Kingborough Council adopted its budget for 2021-22.
The budget is based on a 2.8 per cent general rate rise and the removal of Council’s COVID-19 remission.
“In 2020-21 we provided a one-off COVID-19 rate remission to support residents and businesses during a very uncertain time,” said Acting Mayor, Cr Jo Westwood.
“The remission rebated $690 000 of rates that would otherwise have been payable to Council and was the best way to support our community at that time.
“Unfortunately, we can’t afford to keep providing a rebate to all ratepayers and it won’t be included in this year’s rates notices.
“Kingborough will continue to have the lowest rates in Greater Hobart (see Local Government Rates Snapshot for comparison).
“Our financial support going forwards will be targeted to those in our community who need it the most.
“I encourage anyone who is having difficulty paying their rates bill to contact our team at Council to request support under our Hardship Policy.
“Council has budgeted for the delivery of over $20 million of infrastructure projects, our highest ever spend, and this will help support the local economy.”
With the Kingston Park playground now complete, Council will now focus on capital works in three key areas:
- Redevelopment of the Channel Highway at Kingston in 2022.
- Development of Stage 2 of Kingston Park playground into an area for outdoor activities, exercise and green open space.
- An upgrade and rejuvenation of regional playgrounds, including Louisa Hinsby Park in Taroona, Dru Point at Margate and Silverwater Park in Woodbridge.
“Kingborough’s 2021-22 budget continues to deliver the services our community expects while protecting against future uncertainty.
“It is a responsible approach to financial management and is consistent with Council’s longer-term plan to return the budget to an underlying surplus in 2022-23.”