Council to raise fee for late rate payers

Christopher O'Leary

01Jul08

FEES for late ratepayers in Alice Springs were increased from 16 per cent to 19 per cent at this week%u2019s Town Council meeting.

It was the town’s first rise in the late payment fee since 2001.

 

Alice Springs CEO Rex Mooney said a new fee was in line with that charged across the Territory.

 

The new fee was part of the council's rates and charges declaration for the next financial year.

 

Mr Mooney said: ``It's a reflection certainly of other councils, and in line with increases in the bankcard interest rate.

 

``For some people its cheaper to pay other bills, so this gives further incentive to pay on time or to use the council's installment plan.''

 

Council's Budget, which argued for an 8.65 per cent rate rise, stirred plenty of debate.

 

Alderman John Rawnsley said before last night's meeting that he would be supporting the Budget, believing it was a responsible business plan for the town.

 

But Alderman Samih Habib did not vote for the business plan because he said it offered no new projects.

 

Deputy Mayor Murray Stewart said he wanted to receive more public comment on the plan, but believed it would be passed.

 

Comments from the public questioned the rates rise.

 

Roger Wileman wrote to the council the rate increase was unfair. He said: ``Your argument that the people want services is OK, but we have had large rate rises over the past three years with little or no increase in our population. Where does it finish?''