Welcome to this week’s Mayor’s Update. Each week, we look to keep you informed about the latest Council developments, events, and initiatives. Your engagement with, and feedback to, Council is valuable; please see the details at the end of this notice if you would like to get in touch with myself or another divisional Councillor.
Libraries to host Book Week Magic
Libraries in the North Burnett are preparing for the annual Book Week celebrations from 17 – 23 August. This year’s theme is ‘Reading is Magic’, where our local libraries will host a special Storytime and Costume Parade. Book enthusiasts of all ages are encouraged to dress as their favourite book characters as we read stories, sing songs, create crafts, and have plenty of fun. There will also be great prizes for the creative costumes we are sure to see. For session times, go to: northburnett.qld.gov.au/book-week-in-your-local-library/.
Councils Budget Breakdown
Council recently adopted its 2024-2025 budget, and over the coming weeks, we are providing more information on what the budget details mean for the community. This week, we will focus on differential rate categories, and debt recovery and interest on overdue rates. To learn more about these topics, go to northburnett.qld.gov.au/rates-and-property/.
Differential Rate Categories
Differential rate categories are applied to different types of land to ensure that rates are levied equitably based on the use, location, and size of the property. Different land uses, such as residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial, place varying demands on local infrastructure and services. By categorising land and applying rates accordingly, Council can more fairly distribute the cost of services like roads, drainage, and public facilities. This approach ensures that those who derive greater benefits contribute appropriately, promoting fairness in funding essential local services. If you believe your land has been incorrectly categorised by Council, you may object within 30 days after the date of issue of the rate notice, proposing a more appropriate alternative per the differential rate categories. This form is available on Council’s website, or alternatively, residents can contact our Rates team to enquire further.
Debt Recovery and Interest on Overdue Rates
Rates and charges levied under the Local Government Act 2009 and the Local Government Regulation 2012 provide a primary source of revenue for Council. When ratepayers fail to pay their rates on time, it impacts Council’s ability to provide essential services.
The Local Government Regulation provides for the charging of interest on rates and charges that are past due. In extreme cases, the regulation also allows for the sale of land to recover fees and charges that remain outstanding. By implementing proactive debt recovery measures and charging interest on overdue rates, Council discourages late payment and ensures that funds are available for ongoing service delivery. This also promotes fairness, preventing those who delay from unfairly benefiting at the expense of those who pay on time.
To assist ratepayers in meeting their rates responsibilities, Council may accept applications for payment of overdue rates and charges by instalment from property owners. Each application will be assessed against Council’s policies and revenue statement (available on Council’s website). Interest will continue to be charged on overdue rates and charges which are subject to an instalment plan.
Council understands some ratepayers may have genuine difficulties in meeting their payment deadlines. Should you be in such a position, please contact Council’s Rates team to discuss your situation and to consider an acceptable repayment arrangement.
Civil Works Schedule
Below is the maintenance schedule for the week commencing 12 August 2024 – weather permitting:
Maintenance Grading
- Zone 1: Dingley Dell Road to Camboon Road
- Zone 2: Glencoe-Dareen Road
- Zone 3: Cania Road to Cooks Road
- Zone 4: Voss Road
- Zone 5: Dareen Glencoe Road
- Zone 7: Pile Gully Road
- Zone 8: Albrands Road and Cattle Creek Road
Construction Crew
- North: Abercorn Road
- South: Gayndah Mt Perry Rd – Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme Project
Reseal Program Update
The 2024 Reseal Program was recently deferred; however, it is scheduled to resume again in September. The deferral was due to a delayed start and unfavourable weather conditions at the time. The decision was made to ensure optimal conditions and results are achieved for the long-term benefit of the road network.
Media Contact
1300 696 272 | media@northburnett.qld.gov.au