Derwent Valley rates up 3.5%

RATEPAYERS will have a 3.5% increase in their rates notice for the next financial year. The budget was approved at last week's Derwent Valley Council meeting and Mayor Martyn Evans said he was pleased the increase had been kept to a minimum. “Council voted to accept the draft budget presented to them with rate increases for the 2013–14 year set to be 3.5%,” Councillor Evans said.

Some of the projects funded this year include:

• Derwent Valley Regional Arts inaugural art competition major prize.
• Installation of guard rails on Back River Rd, in the vicinity of Fairview Primary School to increase safety.
• Construction of a car park at the Molesworth Community Hall.
• Financial support for the Tiger Trail Festival.

Major capital works projects will include:

• Continuation of essential works including kerb and channel, stormwater works and sealing between Black Hills Rd and Back River Rd.
• Re-sealing part of Glenora Rd. 
• Continuation of drainage replacement and upgrades including Maydena, Molesworth and Third Avenue.
• Erosion prevention along the Derwent Esplanade at New Norfolk.

“Council is mindful of the financial pressures that household budgets face, and works to keep a balance between keeping rate increases to a minimum while still providing essential services to residents,” Cr Evans said.