BY DAKOTA TAIT
A rate rise could be on the cards for Port Stephens residents, as part of efforts to ease the financial pressure on Council.
After a period of community engagement, Council's narrowed the rate rise options down from five to just two options.
Both the options are permanent and would come into effect on 1 July 2023.
Under the Single Year Scenario, ratepayers would see a 26 percent increase in a single year, and Council would reach its budget target in just one year.
The alternative Independent Recommendation Scenario would instead see a rate rise of 10.5 percent each year, for three years, coming to a cumulative rate rise of 34.92 percent.
In the second scenario, Council would meet its budget target by the end of the three years, and services would be gradually enhanced.
Both options eliminate the predicted budget shortfall, as well as supply funding for additional services.
A number of drop-in sessions will be held in late September and early October to consult the community on their preferred option.
Residents can have their say at their local library, the Council administration building, or online at https://portstephens.nsw.gov.au/rate-rise-options.
