The council decided to apply for the special rate variation for budgetary reasons at the April meeting.

General manager Allan Burgess said the decision was made after considering the results of the council’s public consultation process.

The council had until April 17 to apply for the special rate rise.

“Last year the Minister for Local Government did not make announcements regarding special rate variations until June,” Mr Burgess said.

“As a result, council staff have proceeded with the preparation of its management plan for 2009-10 based on the premise that council’s application will be successful to ensure that the plan is prepared on time with adequate time for public exhibition.”

Mr Burgess expects the management plan will go on display next week at various locations around the shire.

“This will allow ratepayers another opportunity to comment on the rate variation and council’s plans for 2009-10,” Mr Burgess said.

If the application for a special rate variation is not successful, the council’s management plan and budget will be amended accordingly.

A public meeting will be held to provide information to the community on the council’s management plan on May 26 from 6pm at the council chambers.