Almost one year on from the amalgamation of the Warwick and Stanthorpe Shire Councils, the Southern Downs Regional Council is ready to tackle the issue of a unified general rating system. 

Mayor Ron Bellingham said that with the appointment of Strategic Facts, Council is now moving quickly to consider options to amalgamate the general rating systems of the two predecessor councils into a unified system.

“Council is concerned that perpetuating the existing systems of the two predecessor councils may not reflect the philosophy or the considerable diversity of the new region,” Mayor Bellingham said.

“The current general rates systems may no longer distribute the general rate equitably across the various land uses and geographical areas of the new region.”

Mayor Bellingham is seeking community input to help shape the future of general rating in the region. 

“Residents and businesses are invited to tell Council what they think is right or wrong with the existing general rating system, and how the existing systems can be improved, if at all,” he said.

“It’s as easy as writing to the consultants or sending them an email.”

Residents and business operators can write directly to the consultants: Dr Chris Hunn, Strategic Facts, PO Box 2338, Wellington Point Qld 4160; or email the consultants at rates@strategicfacts.com.