IPART approves 9.47 per cent increase for Hunters Hill ratepayers

IPART has approved a 9.74 per cent hike for Hunters Hill ratepayers, who will fork out up to more $170 annually.

Hunters Hill Mayor Mark Bennett in front of the town hall. Picture: Chris Pavlich

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IPART has approved a 9.74 per cent hike for Hunters Hill ratepayers, who will fork out up to more $170 annually.

In a report on Tuesday, IPART said it approved the council’s application because it would allow it to fund key assets and maintain its services.

“While we have identified some minor shortcomings in how some of the criteria have been addressed, we consider that approval of the council’s application is reasonable in the circumstances,’’ the report said.

At its December 12 meeting, five out of seven councillors voted in favour of the recommendation.

Riverglade Reserve is earmarked for an upgrade under the rate increase.

The increase, which includes a 2.7 per cent rate peg, affects about 5000 properties.

Deputy Mayor Ben Collins objected to the increase.

“I was opposed to it because I don’t believe we’ve done everything to balance the budget,’’ he said.

“It’s the easy way out and we need to make tough decisions on our spending … before we slug ratepayers with the bill because we can’t get our costs in order.’’

Councillor Elizabeth Krassoi backed the rate increase.

“The overwhelming feedback from people who responded said they were happy to see that rate rise,’’ she said.

Hunters Hill corporate strategist Annie Goodman said the increase would fund upgrades and maintenance to Hunters Hill and Riverside preschools, Gladesville Occasional Care, and Henley and Gladesville Road community centres.

Upgrades to Riverglade Reserve at Huntleys Cove would also occur.

She said an independent telephone survey of 400 residents by IRIS Research that 71 per cent of ratepayers supported the proposed increase.