CITY OF GREATER GEELONG 2012-2013 Rating StRategy

Contents
Rating Framework ______________________________________________ 1
Highlights of 2012-2013 Rating Strategy ___________________________ 3
Historic Overview of Annual Rating Strategy Decisions ______________ 9
Rating Strategy 2012-2013 ______________________________________ 19
Introduction .................................................................................................... 19
Council Responsibilities ..................................................................................................... 19
Council Profile ..................................................................................................................... 19
Purpose ............................................................................................................................... 20
Principles ............................................................................................................................ 20
Rating Framework .............................................................................................................. 21
Definitions and Abbreviations ............................................................................................ 21
Strategic Directions ............................................................................................................ 22
Budget Considerations ....................................................................................................... 22
External Influences ............................................................................................................. 22
Community Impact ............................................................................................................. 23
Property Valuations ........................................................................................ 23
No Windfall Gain ................................................................................................................. 24
Objections to Property Valuation........................................................................................ 24
Rating Differentials and Rate Types .............................................................. 24
Rating Equity ....................................................................................................................... 24
Reasons for Differential Rates Policy: ................................................................................ 25
Differential Tariff Groups .................................................................................................... 25
Differential Rates for Year 2012-2013 ................................................................................ 30
Historical Trends ................................................................................................................. 30
Service Charges – LGA Section 162 ................................................................................... 32
Municipal Charge – LGA Section 159 ................................................................................. 32
Interpretive Guidelines for Differentials and Rate Types ............................... 32
Farm Rates .......................................................................................................................... 32
Mixed Use Rate .................................................................................................................. 33
‘The Point’ Geographical Rate Description ........................................................................ 35
Cultural and Recreation Land Rate* ................................................................................... 36
Ex Gratia Rates ................................................................................................................... 36
Special Charge Rates – LGA Section 163 ........................................................................... 37
Rebates ........................................................................................................... 37
Rebates – LGA Section 169 ................................................................................................ 37
Community Grants .............................................................................................................. 37
Pensioner Rebates .............................................................................................................. 37
Farm Rebate ....................................................................................................................... 38
Exemptions from Rating ..................................................................................................... 38