MORE than 380 locals have put pen to paper, outlining whether or not they support the re-introduction of a special rate which has allowed Swan Hill Incorporated to undertake marketing and business development programs within the region.
While five months have passed since councillors were first asked to consider the continuation of the special rate, which is due for renewal this year, the controversial topic will be debated once again when council holds a Special Meeting on Tuesday (April 1).
Despite coinciding with April Fool’s Day, the meeting will allow Swan Hill Rural City councillors to receive and consider submissions for the proposed special rate.
The special rate scheme has been in place within the Swan Hill municipality since July 2002, and was last renewed for a seven year period in 2007.
While the rate currently covers 755 properties and generates considerable revenue for Swan Hill Incorporated, in recent months there have been mixed reactions as to whether or not council should support the continuation of the rate.
Swan Hill Inc chairman Murray Ray said failure to reinstate the special rate would place the future of the organisation in jeopardy.
“Swan Hill Inc will not exist,” Mr Ray said, noting there was currently no money set aside in council’s budget to help fund the promotional and marketing work which Swan Hill Inc undertook.
Swan Hill Inc is among 381 locals to make a submission in relation to the special rate.
On Tuesday, council will hear from a number of locals who have requested to speak in support of their submission.
The special meeting will take place at the Town Hall from 1pm.
However, a decision on the declaration of the special rate is expected to take place during council’s next ordinary meeting which will be held on April 15.
For the full story, pick up a copy of Monday’s Guardian (March 31).
