Forty-two landowners at Stratford Downs had rate increases for 2015/16  ranging from $409 to $901.

Mayor Kathy Sajowitz explained that it was decided to include Stratford Downs properties in the Town Improvement Special Rates.

A report in council’s business paper explained the concept of introducing the Town Improvement Special Rate to properties within the Stratford Downs Estate was first raised during councillor workshops for the preparation of the Oberon Community Strategic Plan 2013 (for the financial year 2013/2014).

At that time it was decided not to include the properties within the defined Oberon Village area.

However, for the Oberon CSP 2014 it was decided to include these properties, starting from the following financial year, 2015/2016.

The Town Improvement Special Rate is set using land values, similar to the general rates.

There are 42 landowners affected within the Stratford Downs Estate.

 Their land values range from $180,000 to $230,000. 

These values are higher than properties closer to the town centre, as these properties are larger in land area.

Cr Sajowitz said it was unfortunate that the higher land values of the Stratford Downs Estate were not taken into account when the decision was made to include them in the Town Improvement Levy or when the actual rate levies were calculated.

“We know there is inequity and we are going to address these issues at a public meeting to be held Thursday, August 27 at 5.30pm at the Oberon Community Centre – we encourage all residents to attend.”

Wally Bond wanted to know what the residents would get for their money. 

“We have no kerb and guttering, no parks and any beautification is done by the residents,” he said.

Mr Bond asked the mayor what options were available.

Cr Sajowitz said council have not got any options yet, but they would meet and bring them to the public meeting. 

“This is the direction we’re taking.”