A group of dissatisfied locals have rallied outside Port Stephens Council chambers protesting a proposed rate rise.
Council had endorsed an application to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) proposing an increase of 7.5% per annum, for a seven-year term.
Port Stephens Mayor, Ryan Palmer, says over 20 community consultation events have been held in recent months, so he's sure this step forward is what's best for the town.
"Our community wants better town centres, safer roads, more effective drainage, stronger local economies, more jobs and a brighter future. We simply don't have the resources to deliver those major projects yet," Mayor Palmer explained.
However, Councillor Giacomo Arnott and Port Stephens MP Kate Washington strongly disagree - a stance proven by their attendance at the rally.
"I've been talking to a lot of people and they're telling me they can't afford their current rates, let alone an additional 66% over seven years," Cnr Arnott stated.
"It starts with the individual and their home. It's not about what the main road looks like, and even if these projects are what the community wants, there are other ways. We can look at government grants, we can reconsider where Council spends money, we can look at getting campaign commitments, we can reassess our section 94 plans," he argued.
A meeting took place soon after the rally last night and Council approved the decision, 6 votes to 2.
Council's completed application is due to IPART on February 11, next year.
