Maryborough man to question rates costs in council meeting

MARYBOROUGH’S Mike Grounds will stand up in today’s Fraser Coast council meeting and question the increase in rates across the region.

MARYBOROUGH'S Mike Grounds will stand up in today's Fraser Coast council meeting and question the increase in rates across the region.

Mr Grounds said despite Mayor Gerard O'Connell's promise prior to last year's local government elections to work as hard as possible not to increase rates during difficult economic times, he had rates notices from several Fraser Coast properties that proved rates had increased significantly in the past year.

Mr Grounds has also collected more than 7000 signatures for his petition calling for a reduction in rates and for reduced council spending to ensure rates remain reasonable.

Cr O'Connell said the council welcomed submissions.

"As we go through the process to develop the 2013-14 budget, councillors keep in mind how to fairly raise the funds needed to undertake projects, the state of the economy and the financial pressures being felt by residents," he said.

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Originally published as Maryborough man to question rates costs in council meeting