Ratepayers across the Clarence Valley should start getting information regarding a special rates variation and revenue saving from today. Clarence Valley Council’s acting general manager, Ashley Lindsay, said ratepayers were being asked to provide their views on the possibility of a rate rise (inclusive of the rate-pegged limit) for each of five years and a range of other measures. “Council is seeking community feedback on proposals to improve its long-term financial sustainability, with some of these including an 8 per cent rise in the general rate each year for five years starting from July 1, 2016 and a review of 24 discretionary services,” Mr Lindsay said. “An annual 8 per cent increase in rates would yield about $2million annually in extra income and for average residential ratepayers that would mean an extra cost of under $2.50 a week. “Doing nothing about council’s financial situation is not an option. Council must either cut funds to services or raise money in order to address the infrastructural demands across the Clarence Valley.” Councillors will make their decision based on community feedback. All ratepayers are encouraged to provide feedback via a printed or online survey, which is available at www.clarenceconversations.com.au/roadstosustainability People can also contact the council and have a say via email at council@clarence.nsw.au or by writing to Locked Bag 23, Grafton, or leaving comments at the Grafton and Maclean offices. The consultation ends September 25. Councillors will consider the survey results in October. Clarence Valley Council’s ‘discretionary’ services facing the axe • Tourism services and tourism promotion • Economic services and economic development or promotion services • Natural Resource Management Services • Community Development Service, • Youth Services • Ageing and Access Services • Safe Communities Services • Library facilities and services • Community Centres • Sponsored events and festivals • Community Care Services not funded by other levels of government • Public Halls • Under-utilised, unique or unusual sporting facilities • Aquatic Facilities • Under-utilised public amenities • Ulmarra Pool at end of current contract • South Grafton Saleyards • Mobile Library Services • Grafton Regional Gallery • Grafton Airport operation and/ or ownership • Cemeteries • Quarries • Environmental sustainability services • Under-utilised caravan parks and camping facilities