Alpine Shire Council is set to discuss a change in the rating strategy for Dinner Plain at this month's Council Meeting.
The proposal aims to include Dinner Plain ratepayers in the commercial and industrial differential rating strategy for the 2025/26 financial year, moving away from the current declaration of a special rate.
Historically, Council has declared a special rate for Dinner Plain, which funds activities that specifically benefit its property owners; however, under the new proposal, Dinner Plain would be integrated into the broader commercial and industrial differential rating strategy applied across the Shire. This change has no financial impact on Dinner Plain ratepayers, as the differential rating strategy is currently equal in value to the special rate.
If supported, this change would streamline the rating process and ensure a more equitable distribution of rates bringing all Dinner Plain rates in under the Essential Service Commission rate cap. The Dinner Plain Reserve would also cease to receive income from 30 June 2025, with remaining funds in the Reserve quarantined to be used only for projects and services within the village.
"Our goal is to ensure a fair and equitable rating system for all ratepayers," Council's Chief Executive Officer, Will Jeremy, said.
"Including Dinner Plain in the broader rating strategy aligns with this objective and simplifies the process for everyone involved."
Council's rating structure currently includes general rates based on property values, special rates for specific benefits, and service charges for Council services.
The proposed change would bring Dinner Plain's commercial and industrial properties under the same differential rate as the rest of the municipality, which is set at 143% of the general rate.
Mr Jeremy emphasised the importance of public consultation in this process.
"We want to ensure that all stakeholders have the opportunity to provide feedback on this proposal," he said.
"Should this approach be approved at the March Council Meeting, we would draft it into our Revenue and Rating Plan which will be put on public exhibition with the community invited to provide input and ensure that the final Plan reflects the community's needs and feedback."
Council will present the final Revenue and Rating Plan for adoption later in the year, following the public consultation period.
To read the full report for the March Ordinary Council Meeting, visit: M3_25_March_2025_Agenda_F_0.pdf