Special Rate Variation Community Engagement Report - Shoalhaven City Council

Executive summary
Key Initial Findings
• Respondents did not feel that Council’s current financial situation was particularly
negative.
• 60% of the residents had heard about Council’s new rates increase proposal mainly on
radio, through the local newspaper or from friends and colleagues.
• Community support for paying higher rates is low with an average of 3 out of 10.
Support is higher amongst older residents.
• Residents indicated that any additional income generated by a rate rise should be
invested in roads and facility management.
• When residents were asked to rate the usefulness of services and facilities provided by
Council:
Services provided direct to residents rated highest i.e. sewerage and water
services, garbage collection and wheelie bin kerbside recycling services.
Amongst the indirect services, control of hygiene standards of retail food
outlets was ranked top.
Amongst Council’s overall responsibilities, creating job opportunities and
community engagement were reported as being the most useful.
Amongst the facilities provided by Shoalhaven City Council, parks,
playgrounds and reserves were deemed the most useful.
• The maintenance condition of pools, parks and reserves was rated as good.
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