Local rates

RATEPAYERS face a rise of about 7 per cent in their rates in the new financial year.
Cardinia Shire councillors released their draft 2007-08 budget for public comment at a special meeting on Monday.
The $50 municipal charge will disappear as part of changes to the council’s rating structure.
Councillors said the budget would help meet the needs of all communities across the shire.
It will be a “massive task”, according to mayor Kate Lempriere.
She said the dropping of the municipal charge would benefit many people in properties of lower value, including those in flats and units.
“In Cardinia Shire, it has been conservatively estimated that on each day of every week over the next year, three new homes will become occupied,” Cr Lempriere said.
“That means more than 1000 new homes and a minimum 2500 people to provide services for.”