A local councillor has openly expressed his disappointment with Cessnock City’s decision to apply for a rate rise of almost 40%.
Following a somewhat heated debate in chamber on Wednesday 14 January, council voted to proceed with its plans, despite ire within the community.
Cessnock City will now seek approval from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) for a permanent one-year Special Variation (SV) of 39.95%, inclusive of the applicable peg, for the 2026/27 financial period.
A growing population, as well as road repairs, were among the reasons for the projected hike, with residents likely to pay an extra $596.
Cr Quintin King, one of four councillors who didn’t support the proposal, admitted he had serious concerns about the impact such an increase would have on locals.
“I believe it’ll place an unreasonable financial burden on households already under pressure from rising living costs,” he said.
“A near 40% rate rise in one permanent increase is simply too much for many families, pensioners and small businesses in our community to absorb.
“I could not support a proposal that would significantly increase financial stress for those who are already doing it tough.”
Cr King said Cessnock City should have acted sooner to address its fiscal position, arguing that years of inaction had now led to a rushed and extreme proposal.
“This situation did not arise overnight,” he explained.
“Council has known about its financial challenges for some time.
“Yet, meaningful action was delayed.
“As a result, residents are now being asked to carry the burden of decisions that should have been dealt with earlier and more responsibly.”
Cr King also added he was particularly concerned council did not adequately explore alternative options, which could have reduced the impact on ratepayers.
“I am disappointed Cessnock City didn’t properly pursue other solutions that may have spread the impact over time or reduced the overall onus on our community,” he said.
“Residents deserve confidence that every reasonable option has been explored before asking them to accept an increase of this magnitude.”
On a positive note, Cr King reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for responsible financial management while protecting residents from unnecessary hardship.
“I will continue to push for solutions that balance council’s fiscal sustainability with fairness and affordability for the people we represent,” he said.
Residents can make an online submission to IPART to express their views on the proposed rate increase at https://www.ipart.nsw.gov.au/
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