Council halts rates increases for Loxton and Waikerie residents…

LOXTON and Waikerie residents are facing a zero per cent rate increase for the next financial year as the council attempts to ease financial burdens the COVID-19 pandemic has places on its residents.
The District Council of Loxton Waikerie’s (DCLW) draft annual business plan (DABP) included an operating surplus of $415,000, with general rates to be raised through natural growth as a freeze has been put on general rates and CWMS service charges.
DCLW CEO David Beaton said the DABP had a strong focus on “responsibility and sustainability”.
“We have taken a conservative approach to the plan so we can support local ratepayers and residents affected by the economic downturn while still maintaining a healthy balance sheet, so we can support local projects that will have a long-term benefit to the community,” he said.
“The financial year predictions for 2020/21 are difficult for the community with the issues of COVID-19, drought for our dryland farming areas, and indications of low water allocations for our horticulture sector, coupled with increased household expense pressures, (which required) a response from council to support the community.
“To do this, council is setting a budget based on a zero per cent rate increase.
“Council will offer an easier deferral payment application for those adversely affected by COVID-19 and primary producers who may be required to buy additional fodder and water over the next year until conditions approve, without any interest penalty.”
Kerbside waste management collection has been increased to $306 for three-bin collection, $241 for two-bin collection, and $204 for retirement village collections.
DCLW Mayor Leon Stasinowsky said completing projects that are already under way – and projects that have already received State or Federal Government funding – were a priority for council in developing the plan.
“These are tough times and we’ve taken a hard look at what we can do to ensure we are fiscally responsible, and can maintain our long-term focus on financial sustainability,” he said.
“Funding to maintain and redevelop our wide network of sealed and unsealed roads is another key area of focus, recognising the local economic driver that is our horticultural and agricultural sector, and the need for reliable freight routes.
“However, council is also mindful of ongoing maintenance and depreciation costs associated with over 260 buildings owned by council, and to address this, we will investigate opportunities for multi-use commercial facilities as well as reviewing all council buildings to make sure they are adequate for the future.”
The 2020/21 draft capital works program includes $8.325m of capital expenditure, with further updates to be provided by council on the finalised program before the ABP is adopted.
Loxton Waikerie’s annual business plan last year included a rate rise of zero, and 2.85 per cent in 2018.
Public consultation on the 2020/21 DAPB is open until 5pm, June 4. Feedback must be provided in written form and emailed to council@loxtonwaikerie.sa.gov.au or posted to PO Box 409, Loxton SA, 5333.
To view the plan, visit www.loxtonwaikerie.sa.gov.au.