Due to its importance, Muswellbrook Shire Council has extended the public consultation period for its proposed Special Rate Variation (SRV) on mining tariffs.
Residents now have until 5pm on Monday 12 January to provide feedback.
It means more chances for locals, small businesses and stakeholders to have a say on the intended SVR, which will apply exclusively to mining rates and address declining revenue for the shire.
With mine closures projected to be finalised by 2030, council’s proposing a 29% SRV, which includes the 3.1% rate peg, to secure Muswellbrook’s long-term viability.
Key to the concept is a Future Fund for the community, too, with the SRV to yield a $6 million initial contribution.
“This extension reflects our commitment to listening to people while being clear and responsible about the financial challenges ahead,” Muswellbrook Shire mayor Jeff Drayton said.
“Council has heard additional time is needed to properly engage with this proposal… and we’ve acted on that.
“I’d urge anyone in Muswellbrook Shire to take this opportunity.
“It can be as easy as completing the survey on council’s website.
“This is about being fair to our whole community, while remaining committed to the long-term financial sustainability of our shire.
“The alternative to acting now is deferred maintenance, declining infrastructure and harder decisions down the track.
“None of that would be fair to our residents, small businesses or future generations.”
A steady decline in council’s mining rate revenue is tied to shutdowns in the shire, with two major closures scheduled in the next four years.
Muswellbrook Shire also faces significant pressures from inflation, high construction and maintenance costs, and growing expectations for services.
The SRV is designed to secure a financial base for the region, safeguard services and maintain infrastructure, without shifting expenses onto residents and small business.
More on the proposed Special Rate Variation is available at www.muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au/srv
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