By Rhett Burnie
RETAILERS in Nagambie are leading the push for Strathbogie Shire Council to amalgamate with either Mitchell Shire Council or the City of Greater Shepparton.
The push comes after traders were stung with another substantial rate notice that follows last year’s unprecedented 20 percent increase for commercial businesses.
Nagambie Post Office owner and Voices for a Sustainable Future (VSF) secretary Gerry Burdeu said traders are being ‘squeezed’ to accommodate Council’s ‘rising and unviable operating costs.’
He said his rates were pinned at 14 percent and the retail sector is already suffering in the current economic climate.
Nagambie hairdresser Michelle Mills agrees.
“Raising rates again this year is untenable for businesses and unfair on residents,” she said.
“We’re bearing a burden that is beyond our control and certainly not our responsibility or fault.
“Nagambie is our home – we want to live and do business here, and we don’t understand how the Shire can justify making it so hard and expensive for us to exist.”
“Council needs to face the reality it is not viable and the Minister needs to urgently establish an independent panel to restructure local government in our area.
“We’re bearing a burden that is beyond our control and certainly not our responsibility or fault. Nagambie is our home – we want to live and do business here, and we don’t understand how the Shire can justify making it so hard and expensive for us to exist.”
More than 2000 residents have signed a petition calling for a State Government-appointed panel to investigate the Shire’s financial sustainability.
VSF are advocating for Strathbogie Shire to merge with either Mitchell Shire or the City of Greater Shepparton, claiming the move could save around $4 million per year
A spokeswoman for Strathbogie Shire Council said amalgamation may not suit all rate payers.
She said owners of business properties valued at $300,000 and located in the commercial business zone would be $500 better off under Strathbogie compared to Greater Shepparton.
Council is offering a two percent discount is available to residents and traders who paid their rates in full by September 30, the spokeswoman said.
She said other discounts had been offered to farmers.
Local Government Minister Jeanette Powell said she was aware of the issue.
“Ensuring sustainability of the shire remains a significant priority for me and I will be looking closely at the information that is provided,” Ms Powell said.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the Shire Council's final budget, audited statements and rate schedules.
"The Council also discussed with me the work they are doing around shared services and I look forward to receiving further information on this important project which, when implemented, will link services between Shepparton and Strathbogie
