COUNCIL PREVIEW
The Town of Victoria Park is expected to adopt its annual budget next Tuesday.
The main features of the proposed budget include a differential rate increase of 3 per cent, a total capital expense of $18.4 million to be used mainly for works on underground power, and annual fees for elected members in lieu of individual meeting attendance fees.
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READ NOWAn officer’s report stated that applying the above rates would result in rate revenue of $45.6 million.
Victoria Park officers have recommended council seize and sell a local property to recover rates owing.
Since December 2013, the owner of the property has accrued about $12,000 debt in unpaid rates and charges.
The Town has issued notices each financial year, sent letters, commenced legal action via a General Procedure Claim and issued a Property Seizure and Sale Order but has failed to recover the funds.
Mayor Trevor Vaughan said this was only the second time in the history of the Town that it has had to consider such a matter.
Chelsea Pizza may be forced to remove an unauthorised advertising sign after the council considers a retrospective application from the East Victoria Park eatery.
In November, the Town received a complaint about a red and white advertising sign having been erected above the awning at the shop.
On investigation, the Town’s records revealed no approval had been sought or granted.
It was also revealed that the current dining area had exceeded the approved 30sq m and an external coolroom had been placed outside in a carparking bay.
Officers have recommended the council approve the 42.65sq m increase for the dining area but require the signage be removed due to non-compliance with the Town’s Signs Local Law 2006.